FASTING FOR THE HUNGRY (5/5/15)

     Many locals assist in feeding the hungry people of Atlanta.  Some will tell you that they got involved after experiencing hunger themselves.  Very few go hungry on purpose. 

     John Rahiya and Ashley Case are two of those people.  Members of Meals on Wheels Atlanta young professionals board, they decided to experience hunger first-hand in April.

    "I had a big presentation at work," said John "...so while I was completing the challenge I stayed busy preparing for my workshop." 

     John, a graduate of the University of Georgia, works as a strategist for a large Atlanta financial firm.  In his free time he devotes his life to helping feed the hungry of Atlanta.

     "The hungry don't have a choice in the matter," said John, "...we're trying to make the 20-35 age groups aware that their help is needed." 

     Surveys estimate that daily there are 12.4 million children and teenagers lacking adequate food.  And 1 in 4 seniors are hungry.  With 3 agencies helping to provide food in Atlanta, there's still a waiting list of 1,000 individuals.

     "I wanted to understand the emptiness that so many people feel on a daily basis," said Ashley.  "I believe this is the right moment for the younger generation to do our part.  Serving the hungry has been eye-opening."  

     Ashley got her degrees at Georgia Tech, then spent a lot of time traveling the world.  She witnessed poverty everywhere she stopped, and wanted to do something to help.

     During her 50 hours without food, Ashley kept herself busy by walking, reading, anything that would keep her mind off the hunger.   

      "As the time went on, the walks became fewer and I was less focused to read or write," said Ashley.  "Going hungry extracts all of your energy.  By the end of the two days, all I wanted to do was sleep."

     Last December, M.O.W. Executive Director Jeff Smythe took the Hunger Challenge himself, fasting for 50 hours.  "It was tough," Smythe said "...I'm happy that I did it, and if it made one person get involved for life...well, I'd do it again."

     Do you think you are up for the 50-hour fast?  To take the Hunger Challenge yourself, contact Kari Morrison volunteercoordinator@mealsonwheelsatlanta.org

---Ray Macon