Trident United Way hosts poverty simulation event

NORTH CHARLESTON S.C. (WCBD)– Organizers from Trident United Way partnered with board members in Charleston County School District, businesses, and other nonprofits to hold a poverty simulation open to all community members.  

“The goal of these simulations is 100 % to engage people at the next level. We know many people are passionate about the community, and that’s great, but we want people to be passionate at an educated level. We want people to make fact-based decisions in the spaces,” said Katie Reams, the director of United for Allice for The United Way. 

According to the United States census, 14% of South Carolinians are experiencing poverty. During the simulation, participants heard about how poverty impacts day-to-day life and the unique challenges it creates.

Participants encouraged those in power positions to participate in these kinds of simulations as they offer more perspective and can help influence solutions. 

“Putting your foot in their shoes and actually understanding where they’re coming from and the simulation gives a very similar approach to that .. in the community, we’re serving all of these people, and so how do you serve them the best you serve them by putting yourself in their shoes,” Shivon Gilliard development training specialist at South Carolina Credit Union.

To get involved and learn more about how to help, visit WWW.TRIDENTUNITEDWAY.ORG.