Iowa State University Extension

Problem:
About every three years, a local Webster City congregation holds a youth retreat titled “A Night in the Cold,” building youth awareness about hardships faced by homeless people. In this medium-sized town, however, it is basically unheard of for people to be living in boxes, so the church youth director desired a way to set the stage for the exploration of homelessness by examining other faces of poverty, and how people can slide into homelessness.

Response:
In November 2007, Iowa State University Extension conducted an experiential learning activity entitled “The State of Poverty Welfare Simulation” for the 45 youth (plus adult chaperones) to begin their overnight retreat. The simulation puts participants in roles as members of low-income families, and they work through a simulated month, trying to meet their families' needs.

Impact:
The 49 participants reported gaining real empathy for those who experience poverty, and increased understanding of the obstacles families face when they try to maintain stability or get ahead. Because more than half of the simulated families ended the month being evicted or at risk of eviction, the group also grasped how easily and quickly a seemingly stable situation can deteriorate into homelessness. In this youth audience, discussion also focused on the value of obtaining an education that would lead them to careers that will provide adequate and reliable income. Youth leaders and other adults present rated the value of the activity to the youth participants as very high.

Contact:
Barb Wollan
Hamilton County Extension
311 Bank Street
Webster City, IA 50595
515-832-9597
bwollan@iastate.edu