Fred Ayres Organizes Wesleyan Hunger Banquet

2017 Apr 14

The Office of Community Service's Hunger and Homelessness student group, led by Fred Ayres '17, once again organized the Wesleyan Hunger Banquet, an interactive simulation of global poverty rates, on April 12. The event, which educates students on global hunger, raised more than $500 for the Amazing Grace Food Pantry in Middletown.

"The Wesleyan Hunger Banquet is a simulation of the magnitude of global poverty and hunger that allows attendees to visualize and grasp its severity," said Ayres. "Through sharing a meal with others, attendees will also learn about the misperceptions and solutions that surround income inequality. Students involved in current initiatives to ameliorate hunger and homelessness will share how others can get involved."

More than 35 Wesleyan students and Class of 2021 admitted students and their parents, visiting for WesFest, attended the event. Participants were placed into an income bracket at random and then provided a seating arrangement and meal indicative of that income level.

Anthony Hatch, assistant professor of science in society, assistant professor of African American studies, assistant professor of sociology, served as master of ceremonies.

"By attending this semester's hunger banquet, you have deepened your awareness of world hunger and poverty. The test is how you put this knowledge to use," he said. "Together, we can change the world. Rise up. Join the fight."