Chelsea Parmenter, with Ruby, is trying life as a refugee to raise funds in the Ration Challenge.
Jon Hewson www.communitypix.com.au d493905
Camera IconChelsea Parmenter, with Ruby, is trying life as a refugee to raise funds in the Ration Challenge. Jon Hewson www.communitypix.com.au d493905 Credit: Supplied/Jon Hewson www.communitypix.com.au d493905

Ration Challenge: mother eats like Syrian refugee

Jaime ShurmerWeekend Kwinana Courier

CALISTA resident Chelsea Parmenter is attempting the Ration Challenge for the second time.

She is raising funds for Act for Peace while experiencing what it’s like to be a Syrian refugee living in a camp in Jordan by consuming only a small amount of rice, beans, oil and sardines for a week from June 16 to 23.

She has reached her goal of $500 and received an extra reward of 170g of vegetables.

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Ms Parmenter had a baby five weeks ago and is prepared to stop the challenge if she feels unwell or if her milk supply drops.

“I’ve been expressing to stockpile milk for baby in the freezer,” she said.

“Obviously my baby is the priority but it highlights the fact that Syrian women don’t have the luxury of using formula or having a back-up supply and some children have been born into these camps that have been going for eight years.

“Just $5 can feed them for a day, and just 10 per cent of funds raised goes to admin fees.”

Community News contacted Ration Challenge, which confirmed the Challenge was not recommended for breastfeeding women.

They were advised to consult their GP to help inform their decision.

An Act for Peace spokeswoman said the calorie content of food eaten during the Challenge was below 1738 kcal per person per day.

“This does not meet the Sphere Minimum Standard of 2100 kcal/person/day,” she said.

“It is also not consistent with the daily calorie requirements of an average adult recommended by the National Health and Medical Research Council.

“Participation in the challenge is voluntary and all registrants do so at their own risk.

“We strongly recommend that if participants have any concerns about their health that they consult a medical professional before taking part.

“We encourage all participants to cease participation immediately if they feel ill during the challenge.”

To sponsor Chelsea, visit My Ration Challenge.