A Westport woman tried to bring attention to those less fortunate than herself by attempting to eat on just $3 a day for one month.

Mary Ann West volunteers for several causes in southwestern Connecticut. During the month of June, West tried to eat on $3 a day, which is how much the average adult on food stamps gets from the government. West says she broke down twice and splurged on $10 meals, but feels her sacrifice was very revealing.

West hopes the experiment will encourage people to give food donations throughout the year, and not just during the holidays.

The state Department of Social Services says the food stamp program isn?t intended or designed to meet the entire food budget for an individual or a family. The department says the food stamps are meant to supplement a budget.