Through their project, "Goal 2 Zero Hunger", YES alumni Julencia Slamet (YES 2016-2017, Suriname, hosted by Ayusa in Buckley, WA) and Iraisha Shaban (YES 2014-2015, Suriname, hosted by AYA in Florence, SC) joined the global effort to fulfill Sustainable Development Goal #2: Zero Hunger by serving people who are homeless in Nickerie, Suriname. The alumni prepared food and beverages such as rice, beans, fruit, juice, and biscuits, and distributed these items to approximately 25 people. 

“One day I sat outside of a cafe and saw a homeless man passing by. I remembered him from when I was little. I realized that becoming homeless can happen to anyone at anytime. So that's why I came up with the idea of feeding the homeless. We will never know why some people become homeless, but what we should know is that we should help them if we can.” -Julencia 

In order to supply food and beverages to people in need, the alumni received donations from family members and their YES alumni organization. 

“SDG 2: Zero Hunger is really important to me because no one should ever have to go to sleep hungry. Now more than ever, the world needs to eradicate hunger and malnutrition, and we the citizens need to work towards ending world hunger.” -Julencia

According to the United Nations, 'SDG #2 seeks sustainable solutions to end hunger in all its forms by 2030 and to achieve food security. The aim is to ensure that everyone everywhere has enough good-quality food to lead a healthy life.' {source: United Nations} 

“It was an amazing experience that everyone should try to be part of at least once in their lifetime. Feeding the homeless helps us to stay grounded because it reminds us that there are still people who need our help." -Julencia