To be completely honest, I didn't know what I was getting into when I started the simulation. I felt shocked as I was completing it. It's not like I was oblivious to the poverty level, but it was hard to make certain decisions. For instance, I had to choose between cutting off the gas or the electricity in one iteration of the simulation. That one decision, made around day twenty or so, impacted the rest of the decisions I made.
I did the simulation three times in total with different outcomes. Twice I made it to the end of the 30 days with roughly two hundred dollars left. One time, I made it to day twenty and ran out of money. I needed to change decisions in future iterations to survive. It puts into perspective that this really isn't a simulation for some people.
I discovered that people living below the poverty level with children have to make harder decisions regarding their children and how they live their lives. Issues that this simulation raises are "What can we do to cha
nge the systemic issues that contribute to poverty?" and "How can we support families in making better choices without compromising their basic needs?"
The simulation highlighted the constant juggling act that many families face. For instance, when I had to choose between cutting off gas or electricity, it made me realize how interconnected these utilities are to daily life. Losing gas might mean no hot water for bathing or cooking, while losing electricity could mean no light or refrigeration for food. Each choice felt like a lose-lose situation, reflecting the harsh realities many families endure.
In my successful iterations, I learned to prioritize certain expenses over others, but it was clear that even small unexpected costs could derail a carefully planned budget. This experience made me think about the importance of financial literacy and access to resources. Many families lack the knowledge or support to navigate these challenges effectively.
Moreover, the simulation underscored the importance of community support systems. Programs that provide assistance with utilities, food, and childcare can make a significant difference in the lives of those struggling to make ends meet. It also made me consider how policy changes, such as increasing the minimum wage or providing affordable housing, could alleviate some of the burdens faced by low-income families.
Ultimately, the simulation was a powerful reminder that poverty is not just a statistic; it’s a lived experience filled with difficult choices and sacrifices. It reinforced my belief in the need for empathy, understanding, and action to address the root causes of poverty and support those who are affected by it.