Commission on Economic Opportunity

In the simulation, participants assume the roles of families facing a variety of challenging, but typical circumstances. Some are living on part-time jobs at minimum wage, others have recently become unemployed, and some are suddenly faced with the responsibility of raising grandchildren.

The program is conducted in a large room. Participants are seated in family clusters, and community resources are located at tables around the perimeter of the room. To start the simulation, each family is given a card explaining its unique situation, as well as a small amount of “money.” Then, the families must secure food, shelter, and other basic necessities by accessing the various resources during the course of four, 15-minute “weeks.” The activity works best with groups of 10 or more, to allow for a variety of family circumstances to be experienced. (Hunger 101 can be modified for smaller groups upon request.)

The activity lasts approximately two hours and includes an introduction and briefing by a facilitator, the simulation exercise itself, and a debriefing in which participants and volunteers share what they have learned about struggling with hunger and food insecurity. The simulation leaves a lasting impression on participants and communities.

Hunger 101 concludes with a tour of the Food Bank’s Center for Healthy Living and a hands-on volunteer opportunity to sort or pack food in our Food Bank. Please allow an additional 1-1½ hours for the tour and volunteer activity.