Simulation helps participants understand hardships of poverty
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The Purdue University Cooperative Extension Service will partner with the Indiana Nutrition Council to help Indiana residents understand the hardships of poverty.
"The Reality of Poverty," a simulation demonstrating what the nearly 800,000 impoverished families in Indiana deal with on a daily basis, will run from 9 a.m. to noon Oct. 30 at the Indiana Farm Bureau Building in Indianapolis.
"It's difficult to truly understand poverty unless you experience it every day," said Angie Abbott, Purdue Extension foods and nutrition specialist. "The simulation invites participants to walk a mile in the shoes of those facing poverty. We hope this will create a broader awareness of the realities of poverty for policymakers, community leaders and others who frequently work with low-income families."
During the simulation, participants assume roles of families facing poverty. They must provide for basic necessities and shelter on a limited budget during the course of four 15-minute weeks, Abbott said.
Once participants complete the simulation a facilitated discussion will take place to allow the group to process the experience.
"So many professionals work with the impoverished, so we want them to understand how their clients really live," Abbott said. "Once they have a better understanding, we hope it can give these professionals more insight into helping."
"The Reality of Poverty" is open to community leaders, healthcare providers and others that work with low-income audiences. Registration is $25. Please contact Lydia Armstrong at 317-275-9274 ext. 274 to register for the event. The Indiana Farm Bureau Building is located at 225 S. East St., Indianapolis. For more information, contact Abbott at 765-496-2488, abbottar@purdue.edu .
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