By Keith S. Shikowitz
Homelessness remains a pressing issue in the United States, where countless individuals face freezing temperatures each winter without adequate shelter or warmth. In response to this crisis, Kenn Rowell, along with friends and supporters, launched Blankfest in 1997, a grassroots initiative providing blankets and other essentials directly to those in need. Now in its 28th year, Blankfest has become an enduring tradition of compassion and community support.
The idea for Blankfest came to Rowell when he read a brief news report about someone freezing to death on the streets of New York City. Struck by the tragedy, Rowell decided to act.
“I thought, jeez, you know, that person could have used a blanket,” Rowell said. Starting with 18 donated blankets, Rowell and his friends drove through New York City on Christmas Eve, handing out the items to people living on the streets. The impact was profound.
“That first year was such a head rush that we decided we’d do it again,” Rowell said. Over the years, Blankfest has grown into a global movement, with events taking place in New Jersey, Brooklyn, Vancouver, Montreal, Toronto, and even the UK.
Blankfest is powered by a vibrant mix of local and international musicians, poets, and performers, many of whom volunteer their time. Rowell’s wife, Yvonne Sotomayor, a bilingual poet, has been involved since their first month together.
“Anyone who wants to contribute artistically is welcome—whether it’s a poetry reading, comedy routine, or music,” Rowell explained. Performances create an energy-filled atmosphere that brings people together in support of a shared cause.
This year’s event featured 21 acts and brought in more than 300 blankets. Rowell noted that crowds shift throughout the day, ensuring a lively rotation of attendees.
Blankfest’s success relies on the dedication of volunteers. Eugene Armistead, a longtime friend of Rowell, traveled from Georgia to lend a hand. “For me, it’s a little expense that makes a huge difference to someone who literally has nothing,” Armistead said. His role includes moving equipment, setting up sound, and transporting donations.
Chuck De Bruyn, Rowell’s sound technician, has been involved since the beginning. “It’s one of the most grassroots, zero-BS charities on the planet. There’s no money, no sponsorships—just blankets going directly to people who need them,” he said.
Distribution efforts primarily focus on New York City, with stops in the Bronx, Queens, and Manhattan. Donations are also made to shelters and veterans’ organizations. According to Sotomayor, many homeless individuals share stories of how they ended up on the streets, often due to job loss or personal tragedies.
“It’s incredibly easy for any one of us to fall into that,” Sotomayor said. “This could happen to anyone.”
After nearly three decades, Blankfest continues to thrive thanks to Rowell’s vision and the dedication of countless volunteers. Donations come from all over, including music stores, local businesses, and community members.
For Rowell, the mission remains simple: “As long as we have a venue and people in need, we’ll keep going, ” he said.