Local Credit Union To Provide ‘Bite Of Reality’ To Stockdale High Students

Valley Strong Credit Union will be giving an estimated 200 Stockdale High School Seniors an opportunity to learn what it’s like to have financial responsibilities and live on a budget this Wednesday, November 20.

The Bite of Reality program is a hands-on app-based simulation that appeals to teens while giving them a taste of real-world financial realities. Teens are given a fictional occupation, salary, credit score, spouse and a child, student loan debt, credit card debt, and medical insurance payments.

The teens encounter various stations to “purchase” housing, transportation, food, clothing, childcare and other needs. Fortunately, the game also includes a “credit union” to help with their financial needs.

This interactive activity teaches teens how to make financial decisions and gives them a better understanding of the challenges of living on a budget. Valley Strong employees and community partners volunteer their time to work at the various stations, some as a pushy “car salesperson” or a commission-based “realtor,” just like they may encounter in real life.