Family Resource Center
Poverty Simulation
A poverty simulation is designed to build empathy, challenge misconceptions, create awareness of systemic barriers, and inspire action. The exercise is designed to be engaging, insightful, and sometimes stressful. It is not a game, nor is it able to fully convey what it may be like to experience poverty.
The simulation involves a role-play where participants are assigned a family profile and need to navigate paying bills, getting to work, caring for children, accessing services, etc. across four 15-minute “weeks.” Volunteers play the role of various “Resource Stations” (e.g. grocery store, school, bank, DSHS, employer, food bank, etc.).
Once the simulation has ended, there will a de-briefing where people can share their experiences and discuss how they relate to issues in our community.
The simulation involves a role-play where participants are assigned a family profile and need to navigate paying bills, getting to work, caring for children, accessing services, etc. across four 15-minute “weeks.” Volunteers play the role of various “Resource Stations” (e.g. grocery store, school, bank, DSHS, employer, food bank, etc.).
Once the simulation has ended, there will a de-briefing where people can share their experiences and discuss how they relate to issues in our community.
- Students and those who wish to participate in a family member role Participation sign up.
- Faculty/Staff and community members are also encouraged to participate as Resource Station Volunteers (requires pre-simulation orientation starting at 11:30 am) Volunteer Sign Up.
Video: The Poverty Simulation Experience
This simulation uses the Community Action Poverty Simulation Kit developed by the Missouri Community Action Network. Learn more.
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Child Development and Family Science
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