That menu replicates what a Syrian refugee living in a camp in Jordan receives, and some brave locals are taking up the Ration Challenge to raise greater awareness of the situation faced by those in crisis, conflict and disaster and raise needed funds in support.
Shannon Bulmer started her challenge on Sunday, and Kristy Tremble will start her challenge at the end of next week.
They each received a box containing the above items, a voucher allowing them to use up to 300g of olive oil and two food ‘coupons’ for additional rice and flour.
Each is representative of the coupons many refugees are given by the UN or other organisations.
Mrs Tremble, who is a teacher at Edward Public School, is ramping up the awareness component of her challenge, using it as an opportunity to teach her students about humanitarian issues.
‘‘This is my first time doing the challenge. I first discovered it online and wondered what it was all about,’’ she said.
‘‘I started reading about the situation and doing research, and decided I wanted to do something so I could spread awareness.
‘‘I talk to kids in class about it and it has been a real eye opener.’’
Mrs Tremble said when she brought her small ration box in to the classroom to show the children, they were shocked at the contents and how little was in it.
The challenge will be particularly difficult for Mrs Tremble, who confessed she loves food.
‘‘No coffee will be a challenge, as well as no snacks, sugar or junk food.
‘‘But it’s about getting the issue out there and people talking about it.
‘‘It’s also about creating more compassion in these COVID crazy times — teaching the kids about empathy for others, and realising how lucky we are.’’
Mrs Bulmer has almost completed her ration challenge, and said she too was inspired to take part to ‘‘do my bit’’ for others who are more vulnerable.
‘‘It’s been hard so far,’’ she confessed.
‘‘I did the challenge a few years ago, but now that my kids are a bit older it’s been really good to give them a bit of awareness about it too.’’
Mrs Bulmer says the challenge will end on Saturday night, and she plans to celebrate with a big breakfast on Sunday morning.
The Ration Challenge is also a fundraiser, with participants asking for sponsorship to help provide emergency food, healthcare and life-saving support to refugees.
Mrs Tremble says money raised could make a significant difference.
‘‘An amount of $220 could go towards medical centre referral for 10 refugees, and $600 for a COVID essential kit for 10 refugees, while $1742 would provide food rations for a family for an entire year.’’
To track Mrs Tremble or Mrs Bulmer’s progress, or to donate to their fundraisers, visit https://actforpeace.rationchallenge.org.au/kristy-tremble or https://actforpeace.rationchallenge.org.au/shannon-bulmer.
11°C