In the coming year, the United Way of Lethbridge and Southwestern Alberta will be putting on several workshops, including a handful of poverty simulations.
Executive Director, Jaci Zalesak says that in the simulation roughly 80 people are in a group and with the help of 20 volunteers will go through the month experiencing poverty as an individual or family. Zalesak explains that participants will try to make the month, and when the simulation is over they will discuss and unpack the simulation.
“Often it is a very difficult month for people to experience.”
According to Zalesak as time goes on the United Way, and the non-profit sector as a whole, continues to see more people access food banks. She adds many are individuals who have never accessed a foodbank before, but due to the continued increase in the cost of living are needing help.
“It was announced a family of four will see the cost [of groceries] dramatically increase. Utilities has been increasing and everything just seems to be going up, so it is harder for more people to be able to afford their bills so often we are seeing families or individuals take on another job and that wears on people after a while.”
When individuals take on an extra job Zalesak says it contributes to them spending less time at home with their families, and reduces the time they can devote to their mental health. She adds through the United Way’s 211 helpline, they are seeing an increase in demand for mental health support not just in Lethbridge but country wide, as people deal with this difficult time.
“Obviously we need more supports out there and the more that people are able to donate to charitable causes the more we are able to do.”
She adds whether it be financially or by volunteering their time, the United way is continusely looking for the communities support. More information can be found on their website.