Registration open to KCC staff.  Faculty who were not able to attend at the Spring In-service are also welcome to register.

Could you survive a month in poverty? 

Nearly 38 million Americans live in poverty every day.  Many more people have incomes above the poverty line, but still low enough to qualify for programs like SNAP and Medicaid.  The recent economic downturn and effects of COVID have seen unemployment rates rise and use of emergency food pantries increase. The National Center For Education Statistics has found that 23% of undergraduate students are experiencing food insecurity, and 8% of undergraduate students are experiencing homelessness. 

It is difficult for those of us who are able to provide basic necessities to our families without assistance to truly understand the situations that families living in poverty experience daily – the obstacles faced, the decisions they are forced to make, and the stress and frustrations they feel.  That is why we are inviting you to participate in the Community Action Poverty Simulation (CAPS). 

This event provides participants with the opportunity to assume the role of a low-income family member living on a limited budget for a simulated month.  During the experience, you are challenged to figure out how to provide for your family and maintain your home.  As one previous participant commented, “This poverty simulation dramatically demonstrates how much time and energy many families have to give just to survive from day to day.  It quickly dispels the myth that people would do fine if they would only go out and get a job!”  
 
CAPS is not a game; it is based on the lives of real Community Action clients.  CAPS exists to provide poverty awareness and education, transform perspectives, and inspire local change.  Some of you may have lived or are living through similar experiences - we encourage your participation as well, and invite your experiences into our discussion, if you choose to share them. 

Please know that Transformative Growth Counseling will be present on-site for additional support, as this simulation can result in a variety of different emotional experiences for each participant. 
 

When:  March 4^th, 2024.  8:00 am-12:00 pm.  Check in between 8 and 8:20 next to the police desk in the atrium.
Where:  KCC College Center 
Who:  KCC Staff.  Faculty who were unable to attend Spring In-Service are also welcome to register.