08/15/2026
We are teaming up with friend to the shows Boston Comedian Jay Gillespie for a one of a kind clothes drive. All items will be given directly to those in need. Please read the statement below. You may drop off on Hertans field at the parking gate, 6 Mill Lane Road, Brimfield, MA. Let’s help give people a little dignity. Thank you!
I was a court officer at The Boston Municipal Court. It is the central district court for the county of Suffolk. While I was working there, I noticed that we arrested an inordinate amount of naked people. I would later find out that we would get a lot of custodies that suffered from either drug abuse, or mental illness. We would take in prisoners from hospitals who would deliver them in nothing but a Johnny. I would than have to release this person to the streets as is, once they were done with the judge. Naked, no shoes, just a hospital gown against the elements.
I had worked in the homeless shelter system before this job, and did what I did there. I brought in all the clothes that I had outgrown, and started handing out what I had, as needed. Soon co workers Rocky Melchionda and his partner Roberta Alexopolis went into the room, and separated the clothes and organized the contents. Rocky’s Apparel was born. Today Rock’s Apparel not only helps defendants who are being released, it also provides clothes for those with nothing to wear while they are on trial. I have also started a program to provide socks to individuals who come into custody at the BMC. They cannot wear footwear due to su***de precautions, and most lack proper socks to wear, and go barefoot. There is an Amazon wishlist active where individuals can donate cheap socks, right into Lockup.
I am putting out a call for clothing donations for my Courthouse. I was injured and retired in 2021, but still maintain my connection to both the BMC, and Officer Alexopolis who has risen in the ranks to Asst Chief. We are in need of clothing. Male and female. We will take all sizes, but the smaller ones are the ones we need. People in the throws of addiction, or sever mental illness are usually slight. Sweat clothes are vital. We could also use shoes of all sizes. Winter is coming, hats, gloves, WINTER JACKETS, all needed.
Thank you so much
J
