Through the generous sponsorship of PNC Bank, the partners and members of the Southern Indiana Asset Building Coalition and Purdue Extension are bringing a unique and life-changing experience to Jeffersonville on Monday, October 18, 2010 as a kick-off to Money Smart Week.
What is poverty?
- One of every eight people in Indiana lives in poverty. That’s almost 800,000 individuals
- For two adults and two children, the federal poverty level is $22,050 per year
- Indiana’s minimum wage is $ 15,080 per year
Can you survive a month in poverty?
The economic downturn has put many people out of work and boosted the use of emergency food pantries. But it is difficult to truly understand poverty unless you experience it every day. Purdue Extension, PNC Bank and the Southern Indiana Asset Building Coalition invite you to walk a mile in the shoes of those facing poverty. As co-sponsors, they are presenting a poverty simulation designed to create a broader awareness of the realities of poverty for policymakers, community leaders, non-profit board members, staff and volunteers, and others who frequently deal with low-income families.
During the simulation, participants assume roles of families facing poverty. They must provide for basic necessities and shelter on a limited budget during the course of four 15-minute “weeks”. They interact with bill collectors, human service agencies, grocers, job interviewers, police officers, pawnbrokers and others.
After the simulation, facilitated discussion allows the group to take the experience even further, fostering understanding and giving insight into life in poverty.
Join us for an enlightening and informative experience. Registration is free, but space is limited to 80 participants. Simulation will be held at St. Augustine Church at 315 E. Chestnut Street, Jeffersonville, Indiana. Simulation will begin at 8:30 and conclude by 11:30 a.m.
For more information, to volunteer or to RSVP, please contact:
Whitney Bishop, Executive Director
Southern Indiana Asset Building Coalition
whitney@assetbuildingcoalition.org
812 206 7514
