Circles initiative offers chance to learn about poverty

Could you survive living in poverty?

Capital City Circles Initiative and St. Teresa of Avila Catholic Community will host a poverty simulation from 10 a.m. to noon Nov. 5 at the church, 3000 N. Lompa Lane in Carson City.

"Most people never know the challenges of living in poverty and the hidden rules that prevent families from overcoming those challenges," said the Rev. Chuck Durante, pastor of St. Teresa's.

Participants in the poverty simulation will role-play the life of a low-income family or individual who is struggling with financial survival in a society where the obstacles to success often seem insurmountable, Durante said.

Participants will encounter the challenges of providing food and shelter with limited resources, while interacting with social services representatives and exploring the realities of poverty, he said.

"Those who have gone through the simulation find it fun and interesting as they learn through simple role playing some of the hurdles and struggles of the poor," Durante said.

Participation is limited, so reserve a seat by Tuesday.

For more information on Capital City Circles Initiative, call 883-6506 or 315-9469; or go to www.capitalcitycircles.org or 2621 Northgate Lane, Suite 10, Carson City.