How To Help The Homeless

Comment

Comment by Simone on December 3, 2009 at 8:45pm

Apart from giving money, food or clothing, I think it would be a great gift to just be present with the person. Last year, I had a long conversation with a homeless man in front of a Peet's coffee house. He was asking for money (which I gave him) and ended up telling me about his current situation and how he got there. I was genuinely interested, and I think he noticed, that's why he opened up. In the end, I gave him a hug and we parted ways. Of course, this is not possible with everybody, but I truly belief that your presence and attention is one of the greatest gifts you can ever give.

Comment by Lotusgirl on November 29, 2009 at 4:17pm

Part of the reason to be conscious of what you give is to "not encourage panhandlers". It can become a big problem for business people to have the panhandlers camped outside their businesses. If they are homeless and hungry, then giving them food seems a reasonable solution.

Comment by Sharon C. in Brevard, NC on November 29, 2009 at 2:44pm

There will always be 'homeless' people who are nothing but panhandlers, but then, we live in an imperfect world. The reality is that there are many homeless who really are cold and hungry and would appreciate anything. And even if they are alcoholics or drug addicts, they are sick people who need help. So if you give them money, so what if they spend it on booze?? You will never know if they will make it to the next homeless shelter because of your kindness and turn their lives around - but it does happen!

Comment by Wendy Jo on November 29, 2009 at 1:37pm

I've thought about purchasing grocery store gift cards and giving those instead of cash. A fellow giver/blogger inspired that idea.

Comment by sej on November 29, 2009 at 12:11pm

I've thought about this too - sometimes I give money, but an offer to take them into a restaurant and prepay their meal, carrying stuff you might not need any more (blankets, shirts, coats, etc.) and just stopping someone who is obviously without and offering something out of the window of your car. I think of this especially now that winter is here - just an idea.

Comment by Joyce Kirby on November 29, 2009 at 10:12am

I think treating people with dignity and respect is ALWAYS the right thing to do. There are thousands of families one or two paychecks away from being homeless.