Transformers invites community members to ‘Walk a Mile in My Shoes’

Should I buy food or school supplies?

Is it too cold to sleep in the car tonight?

Do I go to work today or go to the food panty?

Some of our neighbors are faced with these choices on a daily basis. Perhaps if we could “walk a mile in their shoes,” we would be more compassionate and understanding of their challenges.

Transformers of Putnam County is offering a free poverty simulation called “Walk a Mile in my Shoes” at Greencastle Christian Church on Saturday, Jan. 26 from 9 a.m.-noon.

Call Lori Miller at 653-6049 to register.

A poverty simulation gives a glimpse into what life can be like for those who are just getting by. Participants are placed in “families” and given a story line. They then experience a month of poverty with 15-minute segments that represent one week.

The challenge of getting to all the agencies when they are open or of having to choose between necessities becomes a reality.

This interactive event will stimulate conversations about how our community can work together to address poverty. Participants and organizers will debrief over lunch that will be provided.

Transformers of Putnam County, an outreach of Gobin United Methodist Church, works to empower our neighbors to self-sufficiency. The organization offers training to those who want to change their current situation of feeling stuck and empower them to get ahead.

Transfomers also wants to enlighten the middle class to the challenges they face and offer support, encouragement and social connections.