Elliot Way’s “Roll for Warmth” initiative has been a beacon of hope for over a decade during Vancouver’s coldest months. Founded with the simple goal of providing essential warmth to the city’s most vulnerable residents, this grassroots charity has evolved into a community-wide effort that delivers blankets, clothing, and compassion to those in need.
What started with Way’s love for vintage 1970s vans and a deeply personal mission to help the unhoused has grown into an annual campaign backed by local businesses, musicians, and volunteers. This year, Roll for Warmth is set to make an even greater impact with fundraising events, a convoy of vintage vans, and the support of organizations like the Rolling Thunder Van Club and The River Vintage.
Elliot Way’s Vision
Elliot Way’s passion for vintage clothing and community-building collided over a decade ago when he noticed large quantities of warm clothing and sleeping bags being discarded by textile warehouses. Recognizing the dire need for these items among Vancouver’s unhoused population, he packed his 1970s boogie van and began distributing essentials across Downtown Eastside.
Way’s dedication has since inspired others to join his cause. From solo missions to a full-fledged community effort, Roll for Warmth now serves hundreds of people annually, distributing not only blankets and coats but also survival gear like tarps, tents, and hygiene kits. The need is particularly pressing in January and February when charitable donations dwindle, and Vancouver’s wet, cold winters make survival even more challenging.
The Power of Community
In 2020, the Rolling Thunder Van Club embraced Roll for Warmth as its flagship event, transforming Way’s one-man mission into a collective endeavor. Each year, a convoy of four to eight classic vans winds through the Downtown Eastside, their doors loaded with supplies categorized for easy distribution—blankets in one van, coats in another, and socks in a third.
This year, the convoy will culminate at the Patricia Hotel parking lot, where volunteers distribute supplies directly to the unhoused community. The event, now affectionately called the “Roll for Christmas Convoy,” is a vivid example of how grassroots initiatives can create meaningful change through collaboration, camaraderie, and compassion.
Ballads for Blankets and More
Music has always been integral to Way’s mission, serving as a fundraiser and a reminder of the shared humanity between artists and those experiencing hardship. The Ballads for Blankets concert series and A Country Christmas event offer opportunities for Vancouverites to give back while enjoying live performances.
This year’s shows have already raised critical funds, with all proceeds going toward purchasing sleeping bags, blankets, and clothing. If you missed the concerts, you can still support the cause by attending the upcoming event at Wise Hall on December 20th or donating directly via GoFundMe.
How You Can Help
Supporting Roll for Warmth is easy, whether you donate items, attend a fundraising event, or contribute financially online. Essential winter supplies such as blankets, warm clothing, and socks are always in high demand.
- Attend the Christmas Charity Event at Wise Hall on December 20th. More information here.
- Donate directly at the GoFundMe page.
- Spread the word by sharing this initiative with your network.
Every contribution, big or small, helps ensure Vancouver’s unhoused residents face the winter with warmth, dignity, and hope.
A Simple Act of Kindness, A Profound Impact
At its core, Roll for Warmth is a reminder that small acts of compassion can ripple into profound change. For the people receiving these life-saving items, it’s more than just staying warm—it’s a rare moment of human connection. As Elliot Way puts it: “The most profound way to create change is to directly impact someone’s day—whether that’s by providing them with a warm coat or dry socks.”
This winter, join Roll for Warmth in making a difference. Together, we can help ensure no one is left out in the cold.
Teresa is a dedicated storyteller rooted in the Downtown Eastside, reporting on local art, cultural events, and community initiatives. Her work highlights the creativity and resilience of the neighbourhood, amplifying voices that often go unheard. Believing in the power of art to connect and inspire, Teresa focuses on the people and projects that shape the vibrant DTES community.
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