Poverty Simulations

A poverty simulation is a guided experience that exposes participants to the realities of poverty, including the challenges of navigating the complex world of government services and other essential service providers. During the simulation, participants assume the roles of up to 26 different families facing poverty. The task for each family is to provide basic necessities and shelter during four 15-minute weeks, while balancing the requirements of various service providers with the realities of daily life.

Why have a poverty simulation?

Have you ever wondered why it seems so difficult for some people to escape poverty? Have you ever wanted to help but not known how? The poverty simulation is an invaluable experience that will undoubtedly impact your perspective of your community and the impoverished. Advocate from a place of knowledge as well as compassion.

Reactions from poverty simulation participants

"I had no idea the stress that having only limited resources and money could cause."

"Thought provoking, I needed this."

"Stressful! Confusing! It helps with understanding [life in poverty] but you really can only know if you live it day to day."

"Amazing what empathy and compassion sixty minutes of simulation creates."

"Eye opening in ways that I would not have realized."

"It was very realistic and gave insight into the constant frustration and choices between bad and worse."

"[As a result of this experience] I will be more conscious, more empathetic, more of an advocate."

Groups who have participated in a poverty simulation:

· Mecklenburg Community Church

· Covenant Presbyterian Church

· Jewish Federation of Greater Charlotte

· CMS

· Leadership Charlotte

· Women's Impact Fund

· UNC Charlotte

Upcoming Poverty Simulations:

Thursday, 9.9.10, 9 -11am

Sedgefield Elementary School (staff)

715 Hartford Ave.

Charlotte, NC 28209

Monday, 9.13.10, 10am – noon

Cherryville, NC

Tuesday, 9.14.10, 7 - 9pm

Johnson C. Smith University

100 Beatties Ford Road

Charlotte, NC 28216

To participate in, volunteer for, or plan a poverty simulation for your group, contact Crisis Assistance Ministry Advocacy Coordinator, Laura Marett at lmarett@crisisassistance.org or povertysimulations@crisisassistance.org or call 704.371.3001, ext 151.

This project was made possible by the financial support of The Foundation for the Carolinas and the Z. Smith Reynolds Foundation. This project was launched in collaboration with the United Way of the Central Carolinas.