STOP-ing hunger by “living below the line”

Last week, Wahlert’s STOP club took on a difficult challenge. Several members of the club undertook the challenge to “live below the line,” meaning they would live below the poverty line and spend no more than $1.50 on food each day for two entire days.

STOP, which stands for Students Teaching Others Peace, plans several events throughout the year, two of which are the Thanksgiving prayer service and Kids Against Hunger, a program which provides meals to individuals who cannot afford proper nourishment in underdeveloped countries.

Since the club focuses on providing funds and awareness for those in need, the members figured it would be interesting to place themselves in the shoes of those that they serve. Through taking on the challenge, the main goal of the participating STOP members was to gain understanding and solidarity with those who live in poverty.

One participant, Robin Leibold, ‘19, found the challenge pretty difficult despite it lasting only 48 hours. “Even though I only had to ‘live below the line’ for two days, it was a lot harder than I thought it would be. Only eating bread, peanut butter, and pasta was not enough to feed me… I can’t believe people can live off that every day!”

Another member of the club, Audrey Heying, ‘19, found the challenge difficult yet rewarding. “It was hard living off such little food for a couple of days, but it was crazy to think that people live like that every day. It definitely made me realize how lucky I am.

While the STOP club’s “Live Below the Line” challenge has ended, there is still a way to give back to those in need. The club created a gofundme page in which all proceeds raised directly support CRS (Catholic Relief Services). Consider helping the group reach their $500 goal by donating at the following link: https://www.gofundme.com/stop-club-live-below-the-line . Every dollar is greatly appreciated!