The poverty simulation experience is designed to help participants begin to understand what it might be like to live in a typical low-income family trying to survive from month to month. It is a simulation, not a game. The object is to sensitize participants to the realities faced by low-income people.
In the simulation, up to 88 participants assume the roles of up to 26 different families facing poverty. Some families are newly unemployed, some are recently deserted by the "breadwinner", some are unhoused, and others are recipients of TANF (Temporary Assistance for Needy Families), either with or without additional earned income. Still others are senior citizens receiving Disability or Retirement, or grandparents raising their grandchildren. The task of the "families" is to provide for basic necessities and shelter during the course of four 15-minute "weeks".
As an Employer, your role is to time employee work weeks and distribute paychecks accordingly. You approve or reject leave requests. You may also hire and fire employees. Individuals may come to you on their own looking for work or may be referred from other resource people.
Additional Details:
- You must stay at your assigned station for the duration of the simulation - unless your packet instructions tell you otherwise.
- When you arrive at the event, your assigned station will have an instruction packet. Please familiarize yourself with your materials and props. Think about your role and the services you provide.
- You will encounter customers or clients who are lost, confused, frustrated - this is part of the simulation - how you react and interact is also part of the simulation. Be respectful, but feel free to be creative to enhance the overall experience. Realistic portrayals contribute greatly to the success of the experience.
