December 1, 2012

MPAC's Young Leaders Program is taking part in an initiative that is creating buzz around our nation’s current fiscal cliff situation – the Food Stamp Challenge. From Tuesday, Dec. 4, throughThursday, Dec. 6, 2012, MPAC invites you to accept the Food Stamp Challenge.

Pledge to Commit to the Food Stamp Challenge

While the Obama Administration works to reduce the deficit and address the looming fiscal cliff, Americans of all backgrounds are left dealing with impact of the failing economy, the high unemployment rate and ever-increasing poverty.

This past Thursday with the goal of bringing awareness to the cutting spending and takingcare of the most vulnerable, MPAC’s Young Leaders Program in collaboration with the White House Office of Public Engagement held a conference call about the fiscal cliff and its effect on communities, students, the elderly and more.

Currently, one in seven Americans are part of the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), formerly known as the Food Stamp Program. As American Muslims, our faith compels us to be mindful of those who are less fortunate and be merciful and just toward them.

Who spend [in the cause of God] during ease and hardship and who restrain their angerand who forgive people; God loves the doers of good. (Quran 3:134)

Prophet Muhammad taught us that every day, not just Ramadan, should be an exercise in practicing the values of self-restraint, compassion and empathy to those in need.

With this in mind, MPAC has joined the other faith-based groups across the nation who havepledged to take the Food Stamp Challenge -- live three days in the life of an American on SNAP.

Will you join us?

While the cold weather settles in, we are humbly reminded how little many Americans have to live on and keep warm with. We encourage you to take part in this eye-opening challenge andtell us about your experiences.

Here’s how it works:

• Spend only $4.50 a day on food or about $1.50 per meal.
• All food purchased and eaten during the three-day challenge must be included in the total spending.
• During the challenge, eat only food that you have purchased; avoid eating food you already own.
• Avoid accepting free food from family, friends or co-workers.
• Keep track of receipts of food purchased.
• Share your experiences. Blog, write op-eds for your local newspaper and post your experiences on social media.
• Call your member of Congress and tell them about your experience.
• Spread the word about the challenge to your friends and family.
• Donate the additional money you would have spent on food to a local food bank, anti-hunger advocacy organization or charity.