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.”…