Frequently Asked Questions
Where did the idea come from?
The University of Guelph was the first Canadian university to join Universities Fighting World Hunger (UFWH) and in 2011 hosted the 6th Annual Universities Fighting World Hunger Summit. We would like to continue the momentum inspired by the Summit and the resulting relationships with Numana Inc. and ONEXONE. We want to make this a better planet and we want to engage the entire University of Guelph community and our friends and neighbours across the City of Guelph to take action - so we’ve organized a “world record challenge” food packaging event. The meals will be given to ONEXONE to distribute to areas of need.
What is the challenge?
The challenge is to beat last year’s achievement of 159,850 “famine relief meals packaged by a volunteer team in one hour”. The goal is to package 200,000 meals. We need about 1,500 volunteers to be successful and with your help we will succeed.
When and where will this event be held?
The event will be held on September 8, 2012 at 1:00 pm on Johnston Green (rain location – Field House) at the University of Guelph.
Do I have to register? Does it cost anything to participate?
The event is free and, while we hope you will register to give us a better idea of how many people will participate, we would love for you to bring as many people along as you can even if it is last minute and even if they haven’t registered. You can register at:
We also need volunteers to help with set up, clean up and special event roles. If you are interested in participating please sign up as a Green Shirt Volunteer
Where will the meals go?
The meals will be distributed in Mauritania and West Africa in light of food crisis in the region.
What is the nutritional value of the meals and where does the food come from?
The meal we will package has four different ingredients: rice, soy, beans for added protein, and flavoring providing 21 vitamins targeted to help the immune system and has been accepted by Haitians.
How are the meals prepared? Where do people get the water they need to prepare these meals?
The meals are prepared in table stations making up an assembly line of helping hands. Volunteers measure the ingredients with scoops, and fill and seal the bags as teams. Once distributed, meals can be boiled in a pot with water. In areas where water is scarce, ONEXONE will work with local agencies to provide water.
How much does it cost and who is paying for the food?
The food has been paid for by Kinross Gold Corporation, we thank them for their generous support.
Is the event accessible?
Yes! All are welcome to join the packaging process. Please contact Emily Bolton at ejbolton@uoguelph.ca for more information and to let us know if you require assistance.
Does this volunteer opportunity contribute to High School Students requirements of 40 hours of Community Involvement?
YES! We will ensure you receive the documentation you need to go towards your community involvement hours! For even more hours register as a green shirt volunteer!
Where can I learn more about The BetterPlanet Project, Universities Fighting World Hunger and ONEXONE?
www.universitiesfightingworldhunger.org
For more information about the World Record Event to Fight Hunger please contact Emily Bolton, Event Manager:
Phone: 519-824-4120 ext. 53192 Email: ejbolton@uoguelph.ca
