OXFORD, PA — With more than 31,000 people in Chester County living in poverty, many families are forced to make difficult decisions between rent, food, and healthcare. To raise awareness of the daily challenges faced by those in poverty, several local organizations are coming together to host a Poverty Simulation on October 25, 2024, from 10:00 am to 1:00 pm at St. Christopher’s Episcopal Church, 116 Lancaster Pike, Oxford, PA.
Co-hosted by a collaboration of community organizations committed to addressing poverty in Chester County, this event will provide participants with a firsthand experience of the struggles faced by families living in poverty. During the simulation, participants will take on the identity of a person living in poverty and navigate real-life challenges, such as making difficult decisions in healthcare, education, employment, and housing. With limited resources, participants will experience the stress of trying to make ends meet while facing the obstacles poverty creates. Afterward, participants will engage in meaningful dialogue with others and share their experiences, culminating in a reflection session with light refreshments, where they can discuss their insights and potential solutions for addressing poverty in Chester County.
“The Poverty Simulation offers an eye-opening, immersive experience that helps participants understand the complexity and stress of living in poverty,” said Cheryl Miles, Community Housing Development Director at Kennett Area Community Service (KACS). “By walking in the shoes of those who face these challenges every day, we can foster empathy and build a stronger commitment to creating real, sustainable change in our community.”
This simulation is open to all community members, educators, students, and organizations who are committed to understanding poverty and working toward positive change. Participants will have the opportunity to develop empathy and gain a deeper understanding of the difficult choices faced by individuals living in poverty. The event will also foster collaboration, providing a space for participants to connect with like-minded individuals and organizations working toward poverty alleviation. Armed with new knowledge and insights, attendees will be empowered to contribute to sustainable solutions for poverty eradication. By engaging in these discussions, we can strengthen our communities and create a more compassionate, supportive Chester County.
To register or learn more about the Poverty Simulation, please visit https://kacsimpact.org/workshop/.
Poverty Simulation Collaborators:
- Kennett Area Community Service
- SILO
- Neighborhood Services Center
- Lighthouse Youth Center
- Orion Communities
- United Way of Chester County
- United Way of Southern Chester County
- Migrant Education Pennsylvania
- Chester County Intermediate Unit (CCIU)
- New London Counseling Center
- St. Christopher’s Episcopal Church
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