Emily Plihal
Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
A poverty simulation was held late in October, and Peace River Family and Community Support Services programmer Tamara Brunham says people should consider attending next time to learn about the affects of poverty.
“This program tends to be offered randomly by social services and schools in the province,” says Brunham.
“Poverty affects many areas of our life and can be very hard to work ourselves out of,” she adds. “Many people are unfamiliar with the different situations dealt with by those who live in or below the poverty line.”
The simulation was held at the Sagitawa Friendship Centre in Peace River on Oct. 22 from 1-4 p.m.
“There are so many different situations from the many walks of life, this simulation gives us a glimpse into those scenarios and with understanding comes growth and change,” Brunham explains.
“The simulation was designed to create awareness among participants to educate and inspire them to take action to reduce poverty in their communities.”
Brunham explains the poverty simulation has 20 or so volunteers who are tasked with running a service (bank, utilities, pawn shop, school, work, social services, bank or others.)
“The participants are given an identity and a scenario to live out for a month,” says Brunham.
“The month is broken up into four 15-minute weeks. At the beginning and at the end of each week participants reconvene in their ‘family’ if that is their scenario to make a plan for the next week.”
Brunham says this simulation helps people understand what people in their community or family are facing when struck with poverty.
“We have had enormous positive feedback from those who participated in the simulation,” says Brunham.
“Whether you have lived in poverty or not, everyone takes different things from the experience. There is no limit empathy, and this could inspire people to act in many ways. This is also a great way to highlight the supports we do have in town.”
Brunham says FCSS is considering hosting the event again in upcoming years because of the positive feedback they’ve received. As of right now, they are looking to create something for young people to participate in and to learn more about poverty.
This year’s event attracted 50 participants and 20 volunteers. Brunham says they are happy to have had so many individuals show interest in educating themselves about an issue that is affecting Peace River and the surrounding area.
“Poverty looks different for everyone and it’s important to have grace for those who are doing their best with what they have,” she explains.
“It is very rare to have someone choose to live in poverty, many systems are flawed and it’s important to look outside of our own backyards with kindness and compassion first.”