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FPU’s Hunger Banquet: A Reason to Give this Holiday Season

by Ashley Hescock ’20

Franklin Pierce’s annual Hunger Banquet will continue to show students how fortunate they are on Saturday, November 17th, at 5 p.m.

Last year, each student who attended was given a ticket with either higher, middle, or lower class written on it. They then had to eat based on their economic standing. Higher class individuals were given a three-course meal whereas lower class individuals were given just rice and water.

However, this year’s event will be differ as students will have more choices. This year, students will be given different amounts of fake money and there will be a table of food to choose from. Each student will only be allowed to spend what they have, which could vary from a lot to a little. They will have to eat certain things due to their financial burden.

“Giving students the options or choices will really make for a deeper learning experience,” said Marisa Najarian, Experience Director of Mount Washington. Najarian recalled her own high school Hunger Banquet, remembering she was given the role of a pregnant 17 year old. “ I had to think about (if I should) go for the healthier food to nourish myself and my child or do I go for the food that will keep me full for longer,” said Najarian.

Furthermore, for those may be interested in giving back in other ways, Sodexo Dining Services hosts two food drives throughout the year that go to the Rindge Food Pantry. Also, during Raven Moveout, Alicia Berry, Assistant Director of Student Involvement, and many others collect left-over food, school supplies, clothes, and furniture from FPU students to donate to local organizations.

“By having the event so close to thanksgiving, it will help students really focus on what they actually are grateful for,” said Najarian. “Not only being around family and having good health and being around loved ones, but for the simple fact that they have food on the table.

Photo by ginnerobot

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