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 while trying to survive month to month. The experience includes an introduction and briefing, the actual simulation exercise, and a debriefing period in which participants and volunteer staffers share their feelings and experiences. During the simulation, 60-85 participants assume the roles of up to 26 different families facing poverty. The task of each of the “families” is to provide for basic necessities and shelter during the course of four 15 minute “weeks” with the help of the community services. These services include a Bank, Employment Office, Pawnbroker, Grocery, Welfare Office, Police Station and Utilities and Rent Payment Centers. Scenarios are created based on real time poverty statistics, cost of living, average rent, etc.
