The Options Committee of Making Kenora Home has proposed the third poverty challenge, A Walk in Other’s Shoes. Participants will attempt to stay within an Ontario Works social assistance benefits budget. The maximum basic needs benefit is just over $7.00 per day. The challenge budget of $38.00 will include all food and drink, entertainment, some personal supplies and transportation costs. Each participant will be given a daily challenge card which will reveal an additional challenge to be completed before the end of each day. It is hoped the event will raise awareness and break barriers for those living in poverty. The participants will experience some of the hurdles that people living on social assistance face every day. A kick-off event will be held at Kenora City Council Chambers on Friday February 8th at 12:00pm. The wrap up event will be held at Women’s Place Kenora on Wednesday February 13th at 12:00. Everyone is welcome.

Saturday, February 9, 2013

Day 1/ Beginning of Day 2

Day one was a busy day, so I really only had time to eat a 3 inch sub from Subway. Only $2.10, but not quite filling. My first day's challenge was to research the price of content insurance, and see if it could fit in to my monthly budget under my disability benefits. I personally pay for tenant insurance, and know that the cheapest is $100.98 or a year. While this would be manageable as it would only cost about $2.13 a week, where I purchase my tenant insurance, the payment has to be made in full. I think that would be completely out of the question to have to save up for tenant insurance, especially when you are already struggling to meet your day-to-day needs.

Unfortunately (or perhaps fortunately) I had to make a trip to Winnipeg this weekend, as I have a dentist appointment. This will result in the loss of $2 from my budget. On the upside, I took advantage of the Dollarama near where I was staying which make for a relatively successful shopping day. I managed to pick up hygiene products (2-1 shampoo and conditioner, bar of soap, tooth brush, toothpaste, shaving cream, deodorant and razors) for $8.96. Each item was one dollar, with exception of the razors, which were two (they came in bulk). In terms of food, I decided to eat what I normally would during the week. I purchased a dozen eggs, a loaf of bread, Mr. Noodles, instant coffee (gross) and sugar for the coffee. You never really realize the cost of a dozen eggs when you have the means to buy them, but when living off a tight budget, $2.99 for eggs is bothersome. Food in total came to $10.55. Between that Subway sandwich, hygiene products, food and the trip to Winnipeg, I have spent a total of $23.61 and now only have $14.39.

Now on to the beginning of Day two.

I'm a little put off by not showering today, I really prefer to have a shower to start my day and get things going. On the bright side I don't work today, so I don't exactly need to be sharp.While I feel fine physically, I do find myself overly concerned with the remaining budget. I realize I have a decent amount, but with unforeseen challenges, there is a bit of worry. My challenge today is to collect 10 shopping carts and take the change. Unfortunately the closest shopping center with paid shopping carts will take a 45 minute walk, followed by a bus ride, which will cost me $2.50. (I'm still in Winnipeg by the way, So I can get a transfer pass which is good for an hour. I only have to pay one fare). If I can actually collect ten shopping carts, I can make $10, minus the $2.50 transit fair. Wish me luck...




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