Adults to get a taste of what its like to live in poverty in Aug. 14 simulation
Adults in Polk County will have opportunity to understand what it is like to survive on a limited income in a poverty simulation from 2 to 5 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 14.
The event, hosted by Action Ministries, will be held at the Rockmart Community Center, located at the corner of Hogue Ave. and College St.
The experience, guided by volunteers, is a simulation, not a game. The object is to sensitize participants to realities faced by low-income people.
Rhonda Heuer, Polk Family Connection, said she experienced a similar activity and was “really stressed” at the end of the event. “It is a great way to help individ- uals understand how to stretch their family budget to survive on a meager income.”
Participants are roleplaying and simulate what it would be like if deserted by the breadwinner, be a homeless person or recipients of TANF (Temporary Assistance for Needy Families). Still others could be senior citizens with a disability or retired or those raising their grandchildren.
Those taking part are to receive enough money for basic necessities and shelter during the course of four 15-minute weeks, which would be a month of survival on a lowincome.
The simulation will be held in a large space with family members using a small amount of money to take advantage of what is offered by volunteers providing services such as a bank, grocery store, employer, utility company, pawn broker, social service agency, faith-based agency, payday and title loan facility, mortgage company, school, and child care center.
Volunteers can also assume the roles of police officer or other public safety individual. The experience will continue for an estimated hour and one–half.
“Remember, this is a pretend or simulated experience, but it is a reality for many local families,” said Heuer. “It is our hope that volunteers from local businesses or agencies can share the experience with members of their groups or organizations.”