(1888PressRelease)
November 26, 2008 - The 2nd annual BlankFest Canada will cover the city of Toronto with a blanket fundraiser on Saturday, Dec. 6th at the city's landmark El Mocombo nightclub, located at 464 Spadina Ave. Blankfest Canada's goal is to collect as many Blankets for the homeless this year as possible and is asking guests to bring new and used blankets or comforters in good condition (minimum one per person) as the price of admission to the event. In addition to the announcement of Blankfest Canada's fundraiser, time slots available for artists who would like to perform at the event can contact info ( @ ) blankfestcanada dot com dot
This year's Blank-Fest Canada was almost canceled after a suspension imposed on the venue by the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO) threatened to quash the event. The suspension was lifted for the charity event date, after a letter of appeal was sent to the AGCO Board by event organizer, Gaynor Fletcher.
Since we can't deny that the winter season and below zero temperatures are creeping around the corner. Those left with out a home and sleeping in the streets are vulnerable to frostbite and death. BlankFest Canada stresses the importance in saving lives and keeps those less fortunate than others to stay warm over the winter season on the Toronto streets.
"I have seen the eyes of a homeless person light up at the prospect of a free blanket, promising a warmer or more comfortable night's sleep on the street. As simple and inexpensive to most of us, a blanket can mean so much more when your home is a sidewalk or a park bench," Fletcher says.
Blank-Fest Canada's inaugural event took place last December at Guelph's Salsateria Club, and raised over 120 blankets, which were distributed locally to homeless shelters and those living on the streets. The Guelph event hosted a variety of bands from across Canada and NYC.
Fletcher first organized Blank-Fest Canada after reading about a similar event based out of NYC, and founded in 1997 by New York City indie rock veteran Kenn Rowell of The Baghdaddios. Rowell travels from NYC to help MC the Canadian event and take part with the other musicians.
In the past, Rowell says, Blank-Fest NYC has raised more than 4,000 total donations that have been distributed to the homeless in the New York City area, and has inspired similar efforts in New Jersey, Manhattan, and Nottingham, UK. Among the many distinguished artists who have performed at past international Blank-Fests are: Rothberg (EMI), Buddy Cage (Grateful Dead), Marc Rizzo (Soulfly) and Meg Griffin (Sirius Radio).
Tickets or reservations are not required. Simply bring one or more blankets to the event.
For more information, contact event organizer Gaynor Fletcher at 519-837-1122 or email info ( @ ) blankfestcanada dot com dot
For more information on Blank-Fest international events, please go to www.blankfest.com or check out the following links:
Video – BlankFest Documentary 1 – http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3_nZr7wZhjc
Blankfest Documentary II - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DtUy2Oms2Cw
BlankFest Documentary III - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2QNKJIPP21Y
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