Take the Food Stamp Challenge

February 23-29

Let’s face it, Lent is a challenge.

However, many of the challenges we take on in Lent bear fruit that is unexpected and appreciated long after the 40 days. The Food Stamp Challenge is one way to stand in solidarity with many Marylanders who rely on food stamps month after month. For them this is a way of life. Although “food stamps” are now called the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and people who qualify receive an Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) card, calling for a SNAP challenge would leave many scratching their heads!

Consider taking the challenge with the following guidelines in mind. The amount allotted for one person for one week is $30. Prepare for the challenge by shopping on February 22, Ash Wednesday, which is a day of fasting. Remember you only have $30 for seven days. The challenge will run February 23–29. Here are a few guidelines:

• Each person has just $30 for food and beverages during the week.
• Eat only food and beverages purchased for the challenge; food, beverages and dining out.
• With the exception of condiments and spices, you may not eat any food you already own.
• Avoid accepting free food from friends, co-workers, family members, including coffee hour, receptions, etc. Temptations abound in the wilderness!
• Go to coffee hour for fellowship and not food.
• Keep track of receipts.
• Pay attention to how you feel and what you are thinking.
• Sign-up for the challenge via the diocesan Facebook page and post your experiences.

If this time frame does not work for you select your own seven-day period.

Nearly 45 million low-income people throughout the U.S. use food stamps. That’s about one in seven people and this is not by choice but by necessity. Show your support by making a seven-day sacrifice and then consider giving what you may have spent to a local food pantry.

The Rev. Canon Angela F. Shepherd ashepherd@episcopalmaryland.org.