When MCM, a Christian group based on campus, came up with the idea in the fall of 2007, the group hoped to set up in the Mountainlair, but competing businesses prevented it from setting up shop.

Instead, MCM found itself outside, under the PRT station.

Twice a week, the group sets up with a plastic fold-out table with a sign that says, “Yes, it’s free!” duct taped to the front. It offers hot cocoa, bottled water, crackers and sometimes lemonade for students.

The expenses for the Tuesday and Wednesday morning pick-me-ups can become pricey, as MCM spends roughly $2,500 per year.

“I don’t look at it as a loss,” said Michel Boyer, MCM director. “It’s worth it.”

Every week, Boyer makes a trip to Sam’s Club to purchase the food, which usually includes an assortment of food for famished students. The weekly trip usually costs about $70, and the group’s yearly budget, which helps fund the project, is funded by the Southern Baptist Convention.

But many students remain skeptical about the free commodities.

Matt Maust, a West Virginia University graduate student and MCM member, said students will walk past the table, turn their heads, then come back to confirm that, indeed, the food and drinks are free.

Within the first 30 minutes of setting up shop, MCM usually gives away 90 packs of crackers, 60 bottles of water, 40 cups of hot cocoa– but only one message.

“We want to bring people one step closer to Christ,” said Boyer. He added that the group strives to make connections with students.

While enjoying the free refreshments, a student asked why the group sits at the Beechurst station for two hours.

“(Because) Christians are cool people who love you,” Maust responded.

One WVU student, who was rushing to class said, “Everybody loves these guys.”

Keeping with the project that started about a year ago, MCM will continue to serve students throughout the winter and spring.

Original Article - The Daily Athenaeum