Do the Math

It's day two of Do the Math.  Yesterday, I visited St. Matthews House foodbank and registered for my box.  I took a small suitcase to make it easier to pick-up my food, as well as the hamper for Gary Warner.  The room was not crowded and  I my wait was very short.  I wondered if it was always so smooth. 

I was asked about food allergies and special needs before the food was brought out to the waiting room.  I had expected the same list as we prepared for the student challengers at Mac.  I was surprised to see that a donation the previous day meant that there were fresh vegetables and fruit in the bag.  Having picked up for two people, it was difficult to manage.  I can see how challenging this would be for a mom with a stroller, or a person with a walker or wheelchair.

I postioned all my food on my kitchen counter and quickly made a peanut butter sandwich.  I was cooking for the Social Justice student group, and knowing that Kojo Damptey was also doing the challenge, I made black beans and rice for us and vegetarian chili for the rest of the group. Nutritionally, it was a good day, although, I ate a block of the cereal when I returned home.

I feel torn about the fruits and vegetables, as the students only have potatoes and onions.  But, I ate the two pears as they were over ripe and would not last beyond the day.      I was feeling hungry by 11 am and ate my peanut butter sandwich.  It's hard to decide how to space out the two tins of tuna for the week, but I am lucky as I have two cans  in addition to peanut butter. 

This afternoon, I received a phone call from someone who saw the article in the Spectator on Saturday.  She wanted to tell me what it is really like to not have the money to pay the hydro bill, and to not be able to buy food.  Her story was sad and pointed out so many flaws in the social services network. 

The Do the Math Campaign is about bringing awareness to a lived reality of poverty.  Increasing the payment by $100 per month is only a very small start, yet, it is a tangible way to begin.    There is so much to learn in order to be a better advocate.