Panhanders, beggars, bums, homeless people, and hobos

 Photo courtesy of City of Easton

I know this doesn't have a lot to do with The Compact, but I couldn't resist.

This is a hot topic and one I've been thinking about writing for a few weeks.  Lately Spokane Valley has become a haven for panhandling.  Just on my way home from the grocery store (1.5 miles away) I saw 2.  This was at 9am.  Most of them don't get out until 10ish.  The largest intersection near our house usually has at least 2 people begging.  When you get off the freeway, there will be 1.  When you get on the freeway, there will be 1.  When you go near Wal-mart there will be 1, maybe 2.  I cannot stand seeing all of this begging.

Recently a local Spokane Valley man, John Fisher, took matters into his own hands and started hanging out where the panhandlers were and had a sign that read "Stop the Panhandlers, Keep Your Change."  Here is his story.

A local news anchor also did a story on panhandling when he tried it out himself for a few days.  Watch the video here

Dave and I had a long conversation about it on the way home from dinner last night.  I kept asking why people gave to these beggars.  He said it was likely because they felt guilty.  Maybe they hadn't been to church in a while to tithe, maybe they hadn't chipped in for a co-worker's birthday gift, etc etc.  We all carry around our own guilt.  It's certainly a motivator to do things you may not normally do.  People need to stop and think of the consequences of their actions.  Giving a drug addict or an alcoholic cash is the worst thing you can do for them.  If you truly want to help those who need it, then I suggest donating cash, food or your time to your local shelter, food bank, or community center.  If you get into the habit of donating to a worthy cause monthly then your guilt about "not giving" will likely fall away.

So, what are your views on panhandling?  Do you give?  If so, why?