46.2 million Americans live in poverty every day. That number includes 32,000 people in Bucks County alone. On Saturday, April 27 from 9-12pm, community members will have an opportunity to find what that feels like by participating in a poverty simulation hosted by Bucks County Opportunity Council at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Doylestown.
The Poverty Simulation is a nationally-recognized activity designed to help people walk a mile in the shoes of those facing poverty. It provides participants with the opportunity to assume the role of a low-income family member living on a limited budget. The experience is divided into four 15-minute sessions, each of which represents one week. During that week, you must provide for your family and maintain your home.
One past participant commented, “(The) simulation dramatically demonstrates how much time and energy many families have to give just to survive from day to day. It quickly dispels the myth that people would do fine if they would only go out and get a job! Many people in poverty have jobs.”
Anyone over the age of 16 is welcome to attend. It is open to business people, volunteers, staff from various nonprofit organizations, local civic and community leaders and anyone interested in acquiring an eye-opening perspective on poverty.
“It helps people gain unique insight into the immense challenges faced by residents who live in poverty in Bucks County,” said Roger Collins, Executive Director of the Opportunity Council. “Many simulation attendees become active with our work in giving a hand-up to those working hard to permanently leave poverty.”
Space is limited. For more information and to register, visit www.bcoc.org or contact Eileen Albillar, Volunteer and Community Connections Manager at ealbillar@bcoc.org.
About the contributor: Jessie Marushak leads all development efforts for Bucks County Opportunity Council, Inc. She joined staff in 2012 and has a proven track record for non-profit fund-raising and extensive experience in development, marketing, public relations and event management. The Opportunity Council connects people with resources to thrive. For more information, visit www.bcoc.org or email Jessie at jmarushak@bcoc.org.
About the Blog: Positively Bucks County is the official United Way of Buck County blog. We focus on the news, tips, tricks and ideas from the people and organizations that make Bucks County a better place. To learn more about United Way of Bucks County, visit www.uwbucks.org. If you are interested in becoming a contributor, contact Marissa Christie at marissac@uwbucks.org.