Hunger is one of the greatest and most overlooked crises in the world today. In 2023 alone, approximately 733 million people faced hunger globally—roughly 1 in every 11 people worldwide. More than 2.3 billion people experienced moderate or severe food insecurity, and over 2.8 billion people could not afford a healthy diet. Children are among the most vulnerable, with millions suffering from malnutrition and hunger-related health challenges every day.

The crisis is not isolated to other countries or distant communities. Here in the United States, nearly 48 million Americans—including almost 14 million children—face food insecurity. Millions of families are forced to choose between paying for housing, transportation, medical care, or groceries. At the same time, homelessness in America has reached record highs, with more than 771,000 people experiencing homelessness in 2024 alone. California continues to carry one of the largest burdens of this crisis, with over 187,000 people experiencing homelessness on any given night.

Behind every statistic is a real person—a child going to bed hungry, a parent skipping meals so their family can eat, or someone living on the streets wondering where their next meal will come from. Hunger is fueled by poverty, conflict, rising costs of living, economic instability, and lack of access to affordable housing. While the numbers can feel overwhelming, we believe compassion, awareness, and action still matter.

On May 29–30, our students will participate in a 30 Hour Famine to raise awareness and funds in the fight against hunger and homelessness. For 30 hours, students will fast as a way of stepping into discomfort, growing in empathy, and standing in solidarity with those who face food insecurity every day—not as a temporary experience, but as a daily reality.

All funds raised through the 30 Hour Famine will go directly to Envision Los Angeles, an organization serving individuals experiencing homelessness and fighting food insecurity throughout Los Angeles. Through practical support, outreach, meals, and compassionate care, Envision LA is actively bringing hope to vulnerable communities every single day.

This event is about more than going without food for 30 hours—it is about opening our eyes, responding with compassion, and becoming part of the solution. Hunger carries a cost, but hope has a name.