With world hunger on the rise, experiential event brings staggering global crises to life

WHAT: On March 13, Up with People will be hosting an Oxfam Hunger Banquet®, an interactive experience that teaches guests about food distribution and hunger throughout the world. This is especially important as global hunger is on the rise after a steady decline for over ten years.

WHO: Up with People

WHEN: Tuesday March 13, 5pm-8pm

WHERE: Eau Gallie area, exact location TBD.

WHY: The Oxfam Hunger Banquets® have helped people understand the reality of hunger for over 40 years at thousands of events attended by more 875,000 people around the country. Before the event, guests draw tickets at random that assign each to a high-, middle-, or low-tier based on current statistics of people living in poverty. Each income tier receives a meal that corresponds to their income level. The high-income tier is served a sumptuous meal; the middle-income section eats a simpler meal of rice and beans; and the low-income tier receives rice and water.

According to a new Unites Nations report, approximately 815 million people suffer from chronic hunger worldwide-more than the population of the United States, Canada and European Union combined. Currently, conflict and drought have pushed four nations to the brink of famine. South Sudan, Nigeria, Yemen, and Somalia are facing catastrophic humanitarian crises, where millions are at risk of starvation. In response to these ongoing crises, the Up with People Oxfam Hunger Banquet® is tailored to support and highlight the famine crises.

About 80 percent of the world’s hungry people work as farmers, herders, fishers or laborers in rural communities. In these parts of the developing world, women are often responsible for the majority of food production, despite having restricted access to markets, land and credit. Hunger Banquets® bring these issues into communities across the nation to address the importance of building a better food system.

People interested in joining this workshop can contact Lieke van den Berg at Lvandenberg@upwithpeople.org or 720 434 5625.

About Up with People:
Up with People is a global education organization that empowers young people to be positive agents of change in their communities and the world. Through our unique blend of music, social action, and international travel, we impact communities for the better while providing youth the knowledge and experience they need for today’s complex global environment. For more than 50 years Up with People has been breaking down cultural barriers and enhancing understanding to help create a more hopeful, trusting and peaceful world. Learn more at www.upwithpeople.org