Poverty Simulation an Eye-Opener
Thanks to all who helped and participated in the Poverty Simulation on May 27, 2011! The evaluations showed the power of the activity. Here are a few of the responses:
- Chaos, hopelessness, helplessness. I thought I knew a lot but this was an eye opener.
- They must likely live in chaos, fear, survival mode and would have a hard time having hope. I will be less judgmental.
- They (people in poverty) deal with a lot of frustration, helplessness and lack of control of their lives. Yes, my views have changed.
- The state and most community assistance are insufficient to solve or even to educate to a positive conclusion. They perpetuate dependency. I have been totally out of touch.
- Very frustrating, like a chicken running around with its head cut off. Felt really chaotic, stressful, hopeless, and helpless. Very confusing to remember your true values, priorities when you are living in flight/fight survival mode. Very limiting and disorganized. Yes, my views have changed.
- It’s very hard to get ahead. I felt like I was being rushed and not getting anywhere. I didn’t realize how frustrating it was for them to live day to day.
- They don’t have enough time to get the services that they needed. The need for transportation is a real issue.
- The everyday stress never ends and spills into the children’s lives. I felt helpless and ashamed. I feel even more compassion for these people we often overlook.
- Families in crisis are already hanging on by a thread trying to succeed. It may only take one negative experience to push them over the edge.
- The system filled all my expectations of indifference. As a picture of hopelessness understanding and empathy don’t fill bellies. Where is the call to Action? What do you want me/us to do? We do want to.
- I cannot believe the challenges they face and the lack of care people have for them in their time of need. I learned more about life in 2.5 hours, than I did in 6 years of college.