Dec. 12, 2024 7:10p
(WGTD)---A long-running, annual fundraiser that focuses on helping the homeless people in the Racine/Kenosha area who are perhaps the most vulnerable kicks off Friday night.
The 18th annual Blank-Fest will be held at McAuliffe’s Pub through the weekend.
The long list of bands includes the first night's headliner, Betsy Ade and the Well Known Strangers.
Admission is a new or gently-used blanket, a sleeping bag, toiletries or $10 at the door.
Speaking on WGTD’s Community Matters program, festival co-founder JJ McAuliffe said all of the items go to centers and shelters in the Racine/Kenosha area who have the greatest amount of contact with the homeless. "In Racine/Kenosha, a lot of the people are hidden. They don't want to be found," McAuliffe said. "Some of them have such mental health issues they want to be left alone."
At the end of the festival, representatives of area centers and shelters are invited in and they divvy up the items amongst themselves, McAuliffe said. "Nothing goes to waste and everybody gets what they need," he said.
While Blank-Fest is this weekend, McAuliffe said items and checks can be dropped off at his bar anytime throughout the year.
More information is on the Facebook page of Blank-Fest, and the interview, hosted by Blank-Fest co-founder Ron Purtee, is on our website.
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