Hillel at Binghamton University, in partnership with other student groups as well as Amnesty International and the New York Public Interest Research Group, organized the Oxfam Hunger Banquet on Tuesday night. The event was designed to raise awareness about the issue of hunger in society and was attended by approximately 40 students.

Each was given cards randomly, which identified them as either high, middle, or low-income citizens. They were served food according to their status, with low-income students serving themselves rice while eating on the floor. High-income students were served salads and other dishes by volunteers. Following the dinner, a fair was held with more information.

The fair offered students information about getting involved in hunger and other issues. It also offered them a chance to make a few peanut butter and jelly sandwiches for area soup kitchens, said organizer Rich Zamore.

“It definitely raises awareness,” he said. “It makes hunger hit home.”

Hillel member and BU student Rachel Ainspan said she hopes students left the event realizing that while there is enough food to feed the world, many don’t have access to it.

“This is a chronic issue,” she said.

BU sophomore Lauren Allman said her experience as one of the world’s low-income citizens was an eye- opener.

“I didn’t know hunger affected that many people,” she said.