The 2017 Thorns FC season kicks off this Saturday. As you’ve likely noted, this day is a PTFC double header- Thorns kick at 12:00 noon, Timbers kick at 7:30. Providence Park will be jumping with the best of NWSL and MLS soccer (and the best supporters, too)!

That extraordinary situation brings us to our very first Rose City Riveters — Timbers Army joint match day drive. The drive will support Janus Youth Programs. Since their founding in 1972 for the purpose of providing residential care for adolescents struggling with homelessness and drug abuse, Janus Youth Programs has provided a second chance for at-risk youth with few resources, and no place to turn for help. Every year, 6,000 youth are assisted through their 40 programs in Oregon and Washington. This includes youth who have runaway or are homeless, or who have been trafficked for sex. Janus also serves teen parents and youth living in low-income neighborhoods as well.

We encourage you to stop off at a department or variety store over the next few days, and pick up some new socks. The most needed kind are the athletic style, as many of the people Janus serves spend a good deal of their day on their feet. As we approach the warmer weather, ankle socks and other lower cut socks are especially welcome. Thick, boot-style socks are always in need, too. While it might seem like such a little thing, good clean socks are greatly appreciated by the young people Janus serves.

Socks can be dropped off at Fanladen, 1633 SW Alder.

See you Saturday!