The Kearney Family Foundation and the Kearney Food Pantry are teaming up to host a unique community event designed to raise awareness and support for families facing financial hardship.

The Poverty Simulation, titled “Living on the Edge: Step Into Their Shoes, Help Change Their Future,” will give participants a firsthand look at the challenges many individuals and families experience when living with limited resources.

The event will take place Monday, February 23, from 6 to 8 p.m. and will serve as a fundraiser for both nonprofit organizations. Through interactive scenarios, participants will gain a deeper understanding of the difficult choices and obstacles faced by those living on the edge of poverty, while also helping support vital local services.

Organizers are currently seeking volunteers and sponsors to help make the event a success. Those interested in participating, volunteering, or sponsoring can find more information online at kearneyfoodpantry.com/living-on-the-edge.

KPGZ News – Brian Watts contributed to this story.

Adopting a family for Christmas is a very popular way to help less fortunate people during the holidays. The Kearney Family Foundation has families in the Kearney School District who need your help this year.

Adopting a family through the Kearney Family Foundation brings joy and relief to those who are struggling in our community. Last year, the Foundation was able to provide Christmas gifts to 107 families.

The Foundation is a 501(c)(3) non-profit corporation founded in November 2003 as a community volunteer organization dedicated to assisting the children and families in the Kearney/Holt area. Every penny donated – 100 percent of all donations – goes directly to those children and families that the foundation helps.

To help others through the Adopt-A-Family program this year and provide gifts and clothing, please sign-up on the Kearney Family Foundation website at kearneyfamilyfoundation.org/how-to-help2. Scroll down to and complete the “Interested in Adopting a Family or Individual?” form. Please include your budget so that the Foundation can pair you with a family size that will meet your resources.

Gifts should be dropped off on November 30 (8 am - 2 pm) or December 2 (4 pm - 8 pm). All family adoption items can be dropped off at 351 W Washington St, Kearney.

Brian Watts contributed to this story.