Cox, speaking for the Providence Tartan Army, stressed that the money did not come from a formal committee. It came from supporters who wanted their time in New England to mean more than the result on the pitch.
“The welcome that Providence and New England have given us, and what our time here has meant to all of us, that is the legacy we want to leave,” Cox said. “Not a score, but a gift that's both tangible, emotional and we hope outlasts us all.”
The donation will support personalised care and wider services for children and young adults living with cancer and blood disorders. That gives the travelling support a lasting connection to the city they have adopted during the tournament.
Providence mayor Brett Smiley told the gathering that the visiting fans had quickly become part of local life, bringing colour, noise and plenty of memorable moments to the city.
“It’s about building a lifetime of memories for yourself and your families, but then also for the families you touched along the way,” Smiley said.
The presentation also included a framed shirt carrying the names of supporters who contributed, while five-year-old Ruby handed over toys for hospital patients. Among them were miniature yellow school buses, a nod to the vehicles carrying fans between Providence and Boston on matchdays.
Scotland’s attention now turns to Morocco, with the group-stage fixture scheduled for 18:00 on Friday at Boston Stadium. Whatever happens over the next 90 minutes, the Tartan Army has already ensured its World Cup story will be remembered for something far bigger than football.