Hunger is a serious issue in our city

Have you ever been so hungry that you have considered eating the half-eaten meal from a stranger?

Chances are, neither has Daryl Bennett. Last week, before a social Issues meeting, I grabbed a plate of from the food court at Peterborough Square Mall and brought it with me to the meeting. I could only finish half of it and was about to throw it out when a friend whispered, “There’s a couple over there who could use that.” I looked at her incredulously while she continued, “Just go over there, tell them I sent you, and ask if they could help you out.”

I complied and not only did they accept the food, they devoured it. I was wishing I had 10 more to give.

I have lived in poverty. My mother raised my brothers and I on “mother’s allowance”, the ‘60’s version of social assistance. I have been homeless. But never have I been that hungry.

Yet that hunger exists in our city. Peterborough citizens, please educated yourself on the values of the candidates. Identify those who represent the needs of the community, not just the privileged. And vote! Yes, your vote counts. Peterborough poverty will be eradicated in one of two ways: a concerted, long term strategy that involves all our citizens. Or death by starvation.

Be grateful for what you have.

Lynn Teatro, Peterborough