RIVER FALLS – Across the St. Croix Valley, countless families work hard yet still struggle to afford life’s basics. The University of Wisconsin-River Falls and partners will shine a spotlight on this reality at the 2025 Poverty Simulation, an interactive experience designed to deepen understanding of poverty and inspire local change.

The simulation is scheduled for Monday, Sept. 29, 5:30-9 p.m., in the Riverview Ballroom in the University Center, 501 Wild Rose Ave., River Falls. The evening will begin with a community resource fair and check in.

The simulation invites participants to promote awareness, increase understanding, inspire local change and transform perspectives on the challenges faced by 1 in 3 households in our region known as ALICE households. ALICE stands for Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed. ALICE households live above the federal poverty line, yet cannot consistently afford life’s basics-housing, childcare, food, transportation and healthcare.

“The Community Action Poverty Simulation debunks common misconceptions about poverty and increases our understanding of those in our communities who are gainfully employed but who have limited assets and a constrained income,” said Kathleen Hunzer, director of academic programs at UWRF and facilitator of the event. “The simulation clarifies that poverty is not a personal failure but rather a systemic, structural issue that needs to be addressed at the local, state and national levels.”

What happens during the simulation

• Participants will assume the roles of families navigating one month in poverty. Working together, they must make tough decisions about employment, bills, food, healthcare and childcare.
• Volunteers bring the simulation to life by staffing community resource tables representing banks, schools, grocery stores, employers and social service agencies. Training and instructions will be provided in advance.

The simulation concludes with a guided debriefing session where participants share insights and reflect on community solutions.

The Poverty Simulation is co-sponsored by the UWRF Student Government Association, UWRF Honors Program, the UWRF Sustainability Office, Our Neighbor’s Place, the United Way of St. Croix Valley, the Pierce County Hunger Prevention Council and other community partners. Together, they aim to highlight the daily challenges faced by those living just above the poverty threshold, people who are too often unseen.

The event is free and open to community members. Registration is required for both participants and volunteers.

For more information or questions, email jordan.cantele@uwrf.edu. Attendees are encouraged to invite others to help raise awareness. Register for the simulation at students.uwrf.edu/student-involvement/poverty-simulation.

Submitted by UW-River Falls