A&M-Commerce Partners with United Way of Hunt County for Poverty Simulation

The A&M-Commerce Department of Nursing recently partnered with United Way of Hunt County to host a Community Action Poverty Simulator to better understand the challenges faced by low-income families.

More than 60 participants attended the simulation event to roleplay the lives of those living at or near the poverty level, including disabled and senior citizens living on fixed incomes. Participants interacted with simulated service agencies, law enforcement, grocers, bill collectors and others to empathize and identify opportunities for positive change.

Dr. Denise Neill, associate professor and head of the Department of Nursing, said the simulation is a valuable experience for communities.

 “This event helps participants develop sensitivity toward those in our communities who are facing various personal and environmental challenges due to their low income,” Neill said. “Participants also learn the social, cultural and behavioral impacts these factors have on individuals' health as they view their choices through a lens of having limited resources.”

Learn more about the Department of Nursing at A&M-Commerce.