As a part of National Hunger and Homelessness Awareness Week, Bethesda Project and Keystone First invite members of the Philadelphia community to participate in a virtual discussion that addresses the realities that many individuals experiencing poverty face.

According to Pew Charitable Trusts, Philadelphia is the poorest city among America’s largest cities, and is an indicator that affects many aspects of city life. Some economists predict the poverty rate in the US will dramatically increase due to the economic fallout from the COVID-19 pandemic.

Prior to the discussion on Wednesday, November 18 at noon, participants are asked to complete Spent, a tool created by Urban Ministries of Durham (NC) in partnership with McKinney in 2011. The goal of the 30-minute virtual simulation: Start with $1,000 and make the decisions necessary to reach the end of the month with something still left in your pocket. Sounds easy, right? We wish you luck.

In this online discussion, after participants complete Spent, we will seek to break down misconceptions, cultivate community connection, and understand our collective responsibility – in ending the harmful cycle of poverty.

 Make your reservation here: bethesdaproject.ticketleap.com/spent/

About Bethesda Project

Bethesda Project is a nonprofit organization that provides shelter, housing and supportive services to adults experiencing chronic homelessness in Philadelphia.

About Keystone First

Keystone First is a Medical Assistance (Medicaid) managed care health product offered by Vista Health Plan, Inc., an affiliate of Independence Blue Cross, in five southeastern Pennsylvania counties.  Here at Keystone First, we are mission-driven and dedicated to helping members get care, stay well and build healthy communities. For more information, visit www.keystonefirstpa.com.

Independence Blue Cross and Vista Health Plan, Inc. are independent licensees of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association.