Jersey Mike’s Subs, the iconic sandwich chain born on the Jersey Shore, officially launched its 16th Annual Month of Giving Thursday. Headquartered in Manasquan, the company is calling on Garden State residents and customers nationwide to help send thousands of athletes to the 2026 Special Olympics USA Games.
Throughout the month of March, more than 3,200 Jersey Mike’s locations will accept donations at the point of sale. The campaign will reach its peak on March 25, for the company’s legendary “Day of Giving,” during which 100 percent of all sales—not just profits—will be donated to the Special Olympics.
Founded in 1956 in Point Pleasant, Jersey Mike’s has long made community service a cornerstone of its business model. While the Month of Giving typically supports hundreds of local charities, this year marks only the second time in the program’s history that the entire franchise network will unite behind a single mission.
“As Jersey Mike’s celebrates our 70th anniversary, it’s especially meaningful to recognize our long-standing partnership with the Special Olympics,” Charlie Morrison, CEO of Jersey Mike’s said. “We are proud to support a mission rooted in inclusion and opportunity, helping athletes shine both on and off the field.”
The company is aiming to shatter the record set during last year’s campaign, which raised $30 million in a single month. Since its inception in 2011, the Month of Giving has raised more than $143 million for charitable causes.
The 2026 funds are specifically earmarked to support the Special Olympics USA Games, taking place from June 20-26 in Minnesota’s Twin Cities. The games will feature:
- 3,000+ Athletes representing all 50 states.
- 16 Olympic-style Sports, including the debut of pickleball and cornhole.
- New Jersey Pride: Substantial funding will stay within the state to support the New Jersey delegation attending the national games.
How New Jerseyans Can Help
With deep roots in Monmouth and Ocean Counties, local Jersey Mike’s shops expect high turnout for the event. Customers have three ways to participate:
- Round Up: Round up your sub purchase to the nearest dollar throughout March.
- Direct Donation: Add a $1, $3, or $5 donation to your mobile or in-store order.
- The Big Day: Visit any location on March 25, when every dollar spent on subs, chips, and drinks goes directly to the athletes.
The 2026 Special Olympics USA Games are expected to be one of the largest sporting events of the year, and Jersey Mike’s serves as a co-presenting partner alongside UnitedHealthcare.
For a full list of participating New Jersey locations, residents can visit the company’s store locator at jerseymikes.com.
