Students end famine in good spirits

Times Reporter

 

Students and teachers at Holy Cross Collegiate, HCC, took part in a 25-hour famine, beginning at 1 p.m. on April 8, until 2 p.m. April 9. 

“I think today was the hardest for most of the kids,” said Jenni Annicchiarico, a teacher at HCC. 

“Last night wasn’t bad but, then they woke up hungry this morning, I think this was definitely the longest stretch.” 

While the famine was a part of Lent, it was also a fundraiser which brought in approximately $2,800. The funds raised will be donated to the Catholic charity Chalice. 

“I’m used to this feeling,” said Mikko Mirador, who explained he only cooks when he is hungry.

Students from Grades 7 to 12, and six teachers, took part in the famine, sleeping at the school overnight, and finding ways to stay entertained. 

 “It was very fun and entertaining, we did lots of activities,” said Grade 8 HCC student Benjamin Budzey afterwards.

He had decided to participate because a lot of his friends were, and he felt it was a good thing to do. He said he tried not to drink a lot of juice because, for him, it would defeat the purpose of participating in the famine, and would take away from the experience. After mass, the doors flew open and groaning students came out, with an hour left until they could eat. Budzey said the second day was the worst because during mass they could smell sausages being cooked. Volunteers had gathered to make up a healthy, hearty meal for everyone. 

About a third of the school’s population participated in the famine. Organizer and HCC teacher Tomas Rochford said they would like to see the event become an annual thing.