Pretty much this! More than once I've treated panhandlers to a decent Timmies meal, and a couple of coffees to go. However, if they decline, and only want cash - then no - no matter what the excuse I won't. I spent 4 years in my teens on the street, and I know exactly where that cash is going!
I think a lot of these people are in need. If I had more money I would help them out. However, I ran into an instance the other day I was quite disgusted by. A homeless man came into the little ceasers I was picking up a pizza at and just walked in front of everyone. No big deal, I don't like confrontation, and if someone is really in that much of a hurry, by all means. As he continues to order, every other word is "I'm homeless". He then continues his order, and right as the employee finishes he cancels everything except a pizza, then says that this employee should just throw all that extra stuff on with the one pizza he was getting because he was homeless. My jaw just dropped in my mind at this kind of nonsense.
I'm also more of a fan of the people on the corner who say they will work for their food or something instead of just give it to them.
don't be that landlord that shows up at your door, in your face "YOU GOT MY MONEY!!!" i hate those fuckers.
I usually give pan handlers whatever change I have.
I think they shouldn't be at intersections though, it could create a dangerous traffic situation. It is also annoying to be sitting in your car and have to deal with it.
I knew a homeless guy who I'd see at a local church somewhat often for the free breakfasts they'd have, and he was not well off, but every now and again he'd be fanning out 20's, proud of his $600 take or however much it was. I mean, more power to him, but it opened up my eyes about how much money they can make.
Get them to smile and show their teeth, a lot of homeless don't brush their teeth.
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Oh yeah, guilt is a powerful tool.
Imagine a man or a woman, begging on a corner where 300 people walk past them everyday, even if you only get half, of even a quarter of those 300 to drop a buck each, it adds up.
There are even cases where (as has been pointed out in this thread) non homeless individuals pretend to be homeless and manage to pull in 6 figures. Tax free mind you.
Humans are emotional creatures. All it takes is a slight push on those emotions that drive someone, and you can get pretty much anything you want.
I hate them, they're all over the Metro Detroit area.
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Banned at least 10 times. Don't give a fuck, going to keep saying what I want how I want to.
Eat meat. Drink water. Do cardio and burpees. The good life.
I ignore them
When ever they come up to me at gas stations saying they need a few dollars in gas I say hey I have a gallon container in my trunk lets fill it up and you can have it for your car.
They usually walk away.
I am more in favor of donating or helping at a kitchen or shelter