A WOMAN from Wilmslow has been finding out what life is like for a refugee living on food rations.

Michelle Anderson, who lives in the town and is currently studying Environmental Studies at the Open University, said she was inspired to do something to help people living in such desperate situations.

When the 40-year-old mature student found out about 'The Ration Challenge' - an initiative to raise money and awareness about the plight of refugees - she was very keen to get involved.

Knutsford Guardian: Michelle Anderson from Wilmslow

Michelle Anderson from Wilmslow

Michelle said: "I’d been feeling really down about the situation experienced by refugees overseas for quite some time and had no idea how I could help.

"When I found out about the Ration Challenge I immediately signed up to take part – finally there was a way to make a real difference.

"My family and friends have sponsored me to take part in the Challenge and the money raised will support refugees in camps, and other vulnerable communities, who desperately need our help right now."

Michelle, whose week long challenge started on May 27 and is due to finish on June 2, said she was shocked by how little food there was.

"When I first saw the small amount of rations I would be living on, I was shocked to say the least.

"It is truly devastating to think that people live on these rations, day in and day out – and coronavirus means many more now face devastating hunger.

"I can’t imagine living like they are hungry and no money to feed their families.

"It must be awful. So I wanted to do what I could to help them.

"And also live like they are on rations for a week just really puts it to home how bad the situation is."

Knutsford Guardian: The meagre rations Michelle had to live off for a whole week

The meagre rations Michelle had to live off for a whole week

The rations Michelle was sent to live off for a week included just flour, lentils, chickpeas, oil, salt and rice.

"I’m allowed one veg as I earned so many donations and two teas and two coffees for the week," she added.

"But all have a certain quantity you can have.

"It’s really not much.

"The feeling of hunger is always there but I don’t imagine to the extent of what the Syrian refugees feel it."

Michelle has raised almost £300 from her friends and family so far, but if you would like to support her you can do so via rationchallenge.org.uk/michelle-anderson.