Poverty Simulation

(You can obtain CEUs for this event. Read to the end for more details.)

Poverty is a reality for many individuals and families. But unless you've experienced poverty, it's difficult to truly understand. In Philadelphia and surrounding communities, poverty remains a heartbreaking and intractable reality for far too many.

One in four families in Philadelphia live in poverty—the highest rate among the 10 most populous cities in the U.S.  And in communities throughout our Diocese, pockets of poverty endure.

During the Poverty Simulation, you will take on the identity of a real person in poverty. People with experience providing services operate stations. 

This is a simulation, not a game. The object is to sensitize participants to the realities faced by low-income people.

The diocese is looking for volunteers who have familiarity with any of these positions to "staff" the simulation. Please contact Canon Smyth, tsmyth@diopa.org, if you are interested:  police officer, utility collector, pawnbroker, grocer, mortgage/rent collector, Quik Cash manager, two social service caseworkers, a social service receptionist, Community Action worker, employer, child care worker, schoolteacher, faith based agency staffer, and bank/loan collector. 

The poverty simulation event will offer 3 continuing education credits. If you need a certificate from the National Association of Social Workers (NASW) the cost is $15 for NASW members and $25 NASW Nonmembers. Fee can be paid at time of registration.