United Way poverty simulation returns to Truro

Participants in a United Way program will get a taste of what it’s like to live on the edge of poverty.

The United Way of Colchester, in collaboration with the United Way of Halifax and the Colchester Anti-poverty Network, is hosting Living on the Edge again this year.

This simulation raises awareness focusing on the impacts of poverty and the need for community support by recreating the physical existence of agencies, service providers, businesses and government programs, while placing them in an imaginary community.

Participants are assigned roles, and make decisions regarding rent, food, bills and more.

“Through this experience last year, participants quickly came to realize that people living in poverty have to work extremely hard, and experience high levels of stress, to provide for their families,” said Terry Hearn, United Way of Colchester’s executive director.

“They often have to make difficult choices, such as whether to pay the rent or buy food to feed their families.”

Living on the Edge will take place at Truro Elementary School at 6 p.m. on Nov. 6.

The event is free, but pre-registration by Oct. 31 is required in order to assign roles.

For additional details, or to register as a participant or a volunteer, contact United Way of Colchester at 902 895-9313 or coordinator@colchester.unitedway. ca.