Polk Fit, Fresh and Friendly (PF3) had a very busy week, hosting two Cost of Poverty Experience (COPE) simulations. The simulations were provided in collaboration with Foothills Health Network and were offered to community participants on Monday, May 15, 2017 and then to the staff at Polk County Department of Social Services on Friday, May 19, 2017. 

COPE is a training developed by Think Tank Inc. that offers a glimpse into the lives of low-income individuals and families living in our communities.

When asked via post survey “What was the thing that sticks with you most in regards to the COPE simulation?” one participant wrote: “That being poor has a multitude of causes and the barriers to overcoming poverty can be almost insurmountable.”

Another participant noted, “I look at poverty in a new light. I can’t imagine having to go through the things that we experienced in the simulation. Stress, anger, and the unknowing was overwhelming.” 

At the closing of each COPE simulation there is time for discussion. One of the questions asked by the facilitator, Jane Armstrong, was, “What will you do differently after participating in this simulation?” A few responses included: be less judgmental, ask more questions, be patient, offer to help, actively seek to connect people with resources, build on people’s strengths and offer encouragement.

PF3 and Foothills Health Network would like to thank those who volunteered to make the COPE Simulation a success, as well as all who participated in the event.

– article submitted by Buffy Ashmore