The Oxfam Hunger Banquet is an upcoming event that will give ETSU students a unique opportunity to see how those in poverty live.
The banquet, which was not held in 2001, has been done for five years and is coordinated by Volunteer ETSU.
“The Oxfam Hunger Banquet is an event designed to heighten awareness about the number of people who are living in poverty,” said Chris Gravely, chair of the Oxfam committee.
When guests come to the interactive banquet they are divided into different social classes. Fifteen percent will be in the upper class, 30 percent in the middle class, and 55 percent will be in the lower class. All persons in the lower class are considered to be living in poverty.
Gravely said meals could range from a three- or four-course meal for the upper class, while the lower class will receive only “dirty” water and rice. The water will be colored to represent its poor quality.
During the meal, members of the groups could be offered different scenarios. “For example, someone from the upper class could lose their job and be moved to the lower class,” Gravely said.
Gravely plans to invite people from area high schools, homeless shelters and churches, along with ETSU students, to participate in the banquet.
“Our main focus is the students because we want them to be educated about the number of people living in poverty and we want a reaction,” Gravely said. “I actually lived in a homeless shelter for about a year so I know what it’s like to have to depend on others. All of our food came from churches.”
The banquet will be held in the Culp Ballroom on Thursday, Nov. 21, from 6-8 p.m.
“I think it’s important because, even if it’s only for two hours, you’ll get to see how people in poverty all over the world and even in Johnson City live,” Gravely said.
Canned food donations will be accepted at the door and later given to a local help agency.

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