By Kaitlin Roh and Skyler Larrimore

November 15th through 21st is National Hunger and Homelessness Awareness Week, and the Macalester Community has devoted the whole month of November to Hunger and Homelessness Awareness. While it probably shocks no one to know that almost half of the world’s population lives on less than $2.50 per day, it might surprise some to know that about 59% of Americans will spend at least one year below the poverty line at some point between the ages of 25 and 75. And even closer to home – approximately 9,000 people experience homelessness in Minnesota each night. As part of Macalester’s student body, we understand that most students are aware of the prevalence of poverty not only close to home, but around the world. However, we wish to challenge the Macalester community to move beyond simple awareness and towards action. What can you do to combat the causes and effects of hunger and homelessness? Maybe, it could be as simple as reducing food waste when eating at Café Mac or giving up coffee from Dunn Brothers one morning and instead donating to an organization that advocates for those in low-income or poverty situations. Or maybe, you will decide to volunteer at a local soup kitchen or shelter.

It is time for the Mac community to move beyond awareness, and you can begin the action portion by attending Macalester’s Hunger Banquet, which will be held on Friday, November 20 from 5:00-7:00 pm in the basement of Kagin. Proceeds will be donated to the Jeremiah Program and the Heifer Project.

Come see the action already taken by your peers and learn more about what you can do to help.