Why it's better to give to charities than panhandlers
On Saturday, I was in Kalamazoo at a large gathering. When I walked back to my car with my in-laws, we were approached by a poor woman who was stooped over with tears in her bloodshot eyes and burnt fingers (probably from a crack pipe).Â
She started to relate a sad story: if she could get only $8, she could file the paperwork to get her children back. I looked her in the eye and said, “NO!” Miraculously, her misty eyes dried and she said, “Wow, most people will at least listen to the story.” With that, she stood up straight, squared her shoulders and sauntered out of sight.Â
I had to laugh to myself because when she broke out of character and told the truth about “the story,” I would have been more inclined to flip her a buck or two.
Don't be fooled by panhandlers or people carrying gas cans asking for money. It is a scam.Â
I know these people tug at your heartstrings, but the money is for alcohol or a rock of crack. If you think I’m wrong, give a guy who will work for food a hamburger and then watch what happens to the burger once there is no audience. You would think if the poor soul will work for food, he would appreciate the sandwich, but he doesn't. He wants your loot.
I’m not heartless, and the K-zoo scammer will encourage my conscience to make a donation to a charity in the next week. I’m all for giving to charity, but I believe you should give to your favorite charity and not give cash to panhandlers.
I spoke to a panhandler who was arrested and she told me she and her boyfriend, who pushed her wheelchair, could make $300 on a really good day. They loved Ann Arbor for the warmth and generosity, which unfortunately eventually led to her alcohol-related death. When she was sober, she could be quite pleasant, but when she drank, the business savvy entrepreneur was gone and the foul mouthed nasty drunk appeared.
This is not a new phenomenon. In 1891, Sir Arthur Conan Doyle’s character Sherlock Holmes solved the case of The Man With The Twisted Lip. This case involved a missing journalist, who when found by Holmes, had been living a double life as a respected journalist and a London beggar. It seemed he made more money in stage make-up begging than as a journalist.
Ann Arbor is a great town with generous people who try to assist the homeless and those in need. There are many opportunities for the homeless in Ann Arbor - from shelters to meals  provided by various houses of worship around town. The citizens, volunteers, religious organizations, social agencies, shelters and first responders should be proud of the services they provide those who in need. Â
Small business owners will also “adopt” certain homeless people. Even hardhearted cops who have to run the panhandlers off when they get too aggressive will find homeless people they like and give them coats in the winter, a cup of coffee or a few bucks for “groceries” (with a warning that if a bottle is purchased instead of groceries, it should be consumed out of the public’s view). Some of the homeless really do have terribly sad stories, but uniquely, they are not the people you see panhandling. Â
When I teach at the police academy, I always try to impress on the recruits that we are all just a slip and fall (or these days, a corporate downsizing) away from being homeless. Therefore, treat homeless as you would want to be treated in like circumstances.
Really, the only homeless people who go hungry or without shelter in Ann Arbor don't or can't follow the rules of the shelters or meal providers. Most who beg downtown or at expressway exits have places to stay and can get free meals, so don’t let them “guilt” you into giving them money for their bad habits.
If you truly want to feed or shelter the homeless, make a donation to the United Way, the Shelter Association, the Salvation Army, the Red Cross, Food Gatherers or one of the many service organizations that provide for those in need. There certainly are more people in need these days, and the service organizations need your help and financial support with winter bearing down on the Huron Valley.
So next time someone tries to hustle a few bucks from you, thank them for inspiring you to make a donation to your favorite charity. If you truly feel they need nourishment, tell them to meet you at the nearest store, gas station or fast food restaurant so you can buy them some food. DO NOT LET THEM RIDE WITH YOU! See if they leave their “post” for the sandwich. Â
Another little social experiment you can conduct is to see if you get accosted by fewer panhandlers around the first of the month—when government assistance funds are dispersed. When I was in uniform, those were busy days, calling ambulances for incapacitated drunks to be taken to local hospitals to be “detoxified.” Many got their money and headed straight to the party store to purchase alcohol.Â
One woman in particular, older cops will remember, would get extremely drunk around the first of the month, and when officers tried to assist her, she would order them instead to engage in some abominable and despicable acts against nature. Happily, she sobered up and moved south to live with family. Â
Charity is a great thing if it goes to a good cause. In these times of economic strife, more people need our help than ever. So for those who can, please give—but not to the panhandler on the corner.
Until next time, lock it up, don’t leave it unattended, be aware and watch out for your neighbors.
Richard Kinsey retired from the Ann Arbor Police Department at the end of June and now blogs about crime and safety for AnnArbor.com.
Comments
sammy davis
Fri, Oct 23, 2009 : 2:24 p.m.
Great piece like alot what Mr Kinsey says, but the Larger picture is When Wall street and the Bankers get close to 900 billion in bailouts with no Criteria, whats wrong with this picture! And no bailout for People that need it.
newsboy
Tue, Oct 13, 2009 : 8:50 a.m.
Great story! I believe this is a problem in Ann Arbor. But the real problem is the disorganization and appearances of it all. If these guys were to say, organize and clean up the act it would be more entertaining for us. The first order of things is for them to start paying dues and come up with some bylaws. A dress code and hygiene would also be nice. Lets face it; these guys may be the ones to turn off the lights in Michigan when everybody leaves!
Go Blue
Thu, Oct 1, 2009 : 9:35 a.m.
Thank you! I've been saying this for years. Like the kiddies dropped off by mommy and daddy on the weekend, stepping out of the Mercedes, dressed for the part, heading over to the Arcade to panhandle. Some things don't change - just the venue.
bunnyabbot
Thu, Oct 1, 2009 : 1:10 a.m.
desdemonda, there is a very famous story of the panhandler in NY city. He panhandled from after Easter through Mid October (or whenever it was warmer out). He worked the same corner for years. Often left midday or if it got too hot out or he made enough money. He had a decent apartment, ate great, normal life, sent his son to an Ivy League College (I think law school) and the cold months of the year he went to his island home somewhere in the caribbean to sit on the beach. He made $60,000 a year (and filed taxes on it too!). Now that was maybe 15-20 years ago, so figure that in 2009 dollars. If I remember the story correctly think he had a regular job and day after day walked by same panhandler, one day he stopped and watched the panhandler for a bit, did some calculating and changed "careers". I think he also said he never told a story, he literaly sat there with a cup reading a newspaper or book and people just dropped money in it all day. So he was making 10g a month that he "worked"!
Desdemona
Wed, Sep 30, 2009 : 9:47 p.m.
After reading all these comments, I think I'm going to quit my job and become a panhandler! I never realized they had it so good. Some actually live in apartments? Does this job come with benefits? I wonder if the health insurance is any good and how much they have stashed away in their retirement accounts. I've been thinking about a career change...
bunnyabbot
Wed, Sep 30, 2009 : 8:18 a.m.
a few years ago I was asked to make a donation to a local charity, before I did I am glad I checked out their website. They were affiliated with another local charity whose cause I was not supportive off. Before you give money research the place. Sometimes they are partners with other charities and pool money or more often they give a shout out to another charity, donate to another charity (with donor funds) or more simply condone the other charities cause, belief and activity. so to just to be sure you arn't giving to something that has a sliver of something that might offend you check them out. Also any reputable charities will have on thier website or marketing materials the amount spent on things such as administration costs and fundraising costs. The higher the amount of money actually going to the cause is usually better.
bunnyabbot
Tue, Sep 29, 2009 : 8:32 p.m.
panhandlers went from "can you spare some change?" to "can you spare two or three bucks?".... When approached by a panhandler before they get to the third word I say NO! (just like rich did), every once in a while you will get a ph that starts talking back at you. But mostly I get these shocked looks from other people who just can not believe I would be so mean to a homeless person. Or I have been with someone I know that is shocked. So many people are polite and say no I am sorry. The homeless and needy get PLENTY of assistance around here.
Nick
Tue, Sep 29, 2009 : 6:13 p.m.
I spent four years in Boston, doing research at the medical school. There were half a dozen "beggars". I ran into each beggar about once a week and each told me their story every time for four years. Each had a different story but their stroy never varied. One was visiting his sick son and had run out of gas. One had locked everything in his car visiting his sick mother and need money for a phone call. One's husband was dying from cancer and had her purse stolen. Every week this woman's purse was stolen as she visited her husband. Over one hundred times she told me her purse had been stolen that night. These are really buskers acting a part, and are so into the part they never break out. Pay them for the performance but not because you believe the story.
1bit
Tue, Sep 29, 2009 : 6:03 p.m.
I remember going on a beer run as a student. We were given "the story" as we were going into the party store and, as the money we had wasn't ours, said truthfully we couldn't give any money because it wasn't ours. On our way out with the beer, we had a little bit of change we were going to pass on and the guy said "hey fellas, you know i just want the beer anyway, can you spare one?" so we gave him one for honesty... I'm also amused that people give money to those folks on US-23/Geddes. If they get just one sucker to give a buck every 5 minutes, they'll make $12/hour. Considering that I'm sure they don't report this money, or contribute to Social Security or Medicare, they're making about $15/hour in an equivalent "real job". Beats flipping burgers, eh?
treetowncartel
Tue, Sep 29, 2009 : 3:21 p.m.
I learned a long time ago that when approached by a pan handler ask them for money before they ask you. The look on their face is priceless.
Laura Bien
Tue, Sep 29, 2009 : 2:51 p.m.
Reddit just had a good thread on this subject: http://www.reddit.com/r/WTF/comments/9owae/yesterday_i_saw_a_homeless_man_sitting_on_the/
djm12652
Tue, Sep 29, 2009 : 1:53 p.m.
I have only had one instance where when was asked for money and said I'd buy food my assistance was accepted. It was for a very young, maybe 14 or 15 year old kid that was very tall and big for his age, but nonetheless still a child, all on his own. I didn't give him money, but I did buy him food and beverages to keep him going...I gave him a bus ticket to his Auntie's house and put him on the bus...he was grateful for the food and help, not like the drunks and crackheads that will get angry when you offer to buy food...and don't fall for the other, I need another 7 bucks to buy parts for my car that broke down, or ran out of gas...or missed the bus and I'm short 3 bucks for a cab...all of the stories the streeters use...I did give a guy money in Cleveland when he held up a sign that said "Why lie, I need beer money"...just because he had a new "hook"...
John Hritz
Tue, Sep 29, 2009 : 1:30 p.m.
I agree with the premise that you should give money to charities rather than panhandlers. Regarding the comment, "Really, the only homeless people who go hungry or without shelter in Ann Arbor don't or can't follow the rules of the shelters or meal providers." This implies that our shelters are not at capacity and that there are stats on who is turned away and why. I suspect as the cold sets in we have trouble finding everyone a meal and a bed. Second point, beyond the substance abusers that make up the cities homeless, some are mentally ill and are not getting (or accepting) treatment. Not sure how these folks are handled.
WriterLeft
Tue, Sep 29, 2009 : 12:02 p.m.
Yes, there are scammers and cheats among the pan handlers. But you'll find the same thing among small business owners, ministers, lawyers, investment counselors and every other occupation. And most of those crooks steal far more money from citizens than the street people ever will collect with their stories, whether made-up or true. Yet we don't assume business owners and investment advisors are all evil and out to cheat us. And with unemployment at 10 percent and Michigan graduates taking jobs as baggers and baristas, perhaps some of the "professional pan handlers" have decided that begging is their best career option for now. I agree we need to support charities that will help people who are down on their luck, stuck with an addiction or spiraling down because of layoffs or lack of skills. But human kindness means we also may buy that street person a burger, offer a few words of encouragement -- or carry granola bars as I do to give out when they say they're hungry.
MjC
Tue, Sep 29, 2009 : 11:39 a.m.
Thank you Richard! I'm so sick of seeing the "actors" out on the I-94 and US-23 exits with their cardboard signs (do they all use the same pen?). It's so obvious they are scammers (I can't believe people fall for it!) This country provides shelter, food stamps, medicare, counseling - the list goes on. Our pocket change is best given to the charities professionally trained to help people (think about the upcoming United Way Campaign).
xsnrg454
Tue, Sep 29, 2009 : 11:29 a.m.
The fellow on Main St. with the crutch has an apartment, and doesn't actually need the crutch. Uncle Ronnie on S State St. also has a place to live and is perfectly capable of holding a job if he wanted to. Even the frail old bearded man with the beard and the bible on E William St. has an apartment to live in. Borders books people, same deal. You might as well just drop off a pint of cheap vodka or a few beers and save them the walk to the store.
Commoncents
Tue, Sep 29, 2009 : 11:20 a.m.
The funniest thing about this story is that it reminds me how dumb some people are, especially in Ann Arbor. (I live here so lay off! :)) Anyway, this article is common sense, but I suppose a good reminder to all of the hippies that live within the city limits and read this paper...
EngineeringMom
Tue, Sep 29, 2009 : 11:09 a.m.
Our pastor is part way through a series on called "Free to Love - How to Leave the Judging to the Judge"..... I think I'll continue to dig into my pocket for both the organized programs AND the folks on the street. Who am I to judge if that man on the street corner is Lazarus or a scam artist!
cmotdibbler
Tue, Sep 29, 2009 : 11:06 a.m.
Nice write up Rich (go CHO!). I rarely give money to panhandlers unless they have a really good hook. In Detroit a guy was holding a sign that said "bet you can't hit me with a quarter". I gave him a buck since it made me smile.
Rick C.
Tue, Sep 29, 2009 : 11:03 a.m.
Find out where the local food banks and homeless shelters are, and then you can direct those with starvation and shelter stories appropriately, if they are indeed truly interested. As to charities, they should have available the statistics showing how much money goes to the actual work of the charity. Beware third-party fundraising organizations that organize events, telemarket, etc. -- they get a cut that is sometimes quite large. If a charity strikes your fancy, you can likely help them more by directly donating to them, as opposed to through a third party.
mm1001
Tue, Sep 29, 2009 : 10:43 a.m.
The other day I heard the story to beat all stories and was starting to believe him until he said he was from Chula Vista, CA. Beware of the people who will collect money for "The Veterans" with phoney credentials.
Larry Kestenbaum
Tue, Sep 29, 2009 : 10:36 a.m.
Rich Kinsey is absolutely right in my opinion. Free food is available from many sources. Street people who specifically want money are looking to buy drugs or alcohol. One friend of mine carries McDonald's one-meal gift certificates to offer to panhandlers. Few are interested.
Isanopinion
Tue, Sep 29, 2009 : 10:20 a.m.
Once you get off the exit at Geddes Rd and head east, there is a gravel parking lot just before Dixboro. This is where the "homeless panhandler" parks his car. His car is full of stuff he has been given by the hardworking citizens of Ann Arbor. If you are stuck in traffic on State St right over I94, you can watch "shift change" of the panhandlers. Then watch the one getting off shift walk over to his car, either parked in the gas station parking lot, or behind the gas station. I know for a fact that these particular "panhandlers" make more money in a day then most of us who work for a living. I am happy to help others in need. We all could be in that position sometime. However, I choose to help those who want to help themselves too. I would be happy to purchase any of these people food or clothing, but I will not and encourage you to not, hand out cash to them. Someone truly hungry would be happy to take a sandwich or a picnic lunch, or a job.
dading dont delete me bro
Tue, Sep 29, 2009 : 10:13 a.m.
a relative told me she knows one of these panhandler's on a local corner. this ph took a big three buyout and now does this. get this though, he gets more (tax free too) from doing this than his weekly pay was... now i'm not saying all are like this, but gives the one's that truely are in need a bad name.
halflight
Tue, Sep 29, 2009 : 10:02 a.m.
Adding to ladydi's comment:. The intersection of US 23 and Geddes has a chronic problem with beggars. Some of them commute to "work" on AATA buses and in cars. I've sat on the AATA bus and watched one of them count his proceeds-- a large wad of cash. I wouldn't give any of them a dime. Local charities are in a much better position to monitor how money is used.. When I'm downtown, I usually ignore the panhandlers, but occasionally I'll offer to buy someone food if they ask for it.. I think most people will offer to help someone out who is truly in need, but no one wants to be played or to support an addiction.
vitaltoofor
Tue, Sep 29, 2009 : 9:46 a.m.
Don't let this writer influence how you disperse money to the needy. Many people give their money to panhandlers knowing they can at least make an impact in that person's daily struggle - no matter what they spend it on. Instead of a charity - where money gets caught up in red tape and then goes to some social service that may or may not make an impact on the daily life of the needy. During these hard economic times, there are many reasons why people live on the street (not every case is substance abuse related)...Lets not assume because she has burnt fingers that it was caused by a crack pipe - that's a stereotype that does more harm than good for the homeless population trying to get back on their feet. Word of advice - show some discretion because there are people out there that run hustles on unexpecting people - just evaluate each encounter with a panhandler on a case by case basis.
zlovemojo
Tue, Sep 29, 2009 : 9:46 a.m.
As a social worker serving the most impoverished areas of Ypsilanti I could not agree more. Over the years I have witnessed individuals operating at various exit ramps and am often amazed at their clever techniques and tenacity. I often think (and more often vocalize) if they only put as much effort into finding legitimate employment as they do the hustle. Then my wife reminds me standing on an exit ramp in the elements all day is not a pleasant experience to say the least, which humbles me; though not enough to forget (or forgive) the blatant deceit used by these individuals to feed their habits. Times are tougher than ever and there are few jobs to be had. Its a shame that the truth remains: hustling pays better than pounding the pavement for a job that isnt there.
Wolverine3660
Tue, Sep 29, 2009 : 9:34 a.m.
Mr Kinsey is correct, most panhandlers are nothing but scam-artists, who dont deserve our sympathy. The ones on the Diag and Downtown areas and Liberty Park area, are not interested in helping themselves. They are professional malingerers. You money is better utilized by giving to legit charities.
ladydi
Tue, Sep 29, 2009 : 9:15 a.m.
Mr. Kinsey speaks the truth! There is a man that has, for years, held a sign at the Geddes Rd. ramp stating that he would work for food. He is always standing there when students from WCC are waiting on the ramp to go to classes. One day myself and a group of students made a picnic for this man full of all kinds of food and when we offered it to him he was very mean to us and told us he didn't want our food and to get the heck away from him. It still infuriates me to see students that are on limited budgets hand him money every day. Not only is it a good idea to give to the charities Mr. Kinsey mentioned, but also you can declare these donations on your tax returns.
Billy
Tue, Sep 29, 2009 : 9:15 a.m.
This makes me think of good ole Scrappy...aka...LaMark. If you've ever spent time in downtown you KNOW this individual. He's one of the most aggressive beggars I know. Calling them "pan handlers" is being nice. I would like to note however, CERTAIN charities discriminate about where they donate their money based on unpublished religious, so look into where your money will go when donating to an organization.
11GOBLUE11
Tue, Sep 29, 2009 : 9:13 a.m.
This is an excellent article. One concern I do have about some (not all!) charities is excessive inefficiency and overhead which can reduce the portion of donations supporting the actual goal. I do support certain charities, but my preferred contribution is being a big tipper at restaurants (never less than $3 or 20%, whichever is more, and generally 22 to 28%). This way I know 100% of my contribution goes to a hard worker.
jessa
Tue, Sep 29, 2009 : 8:57 a.m.
I entirely concur that donating money, goods or volunteer time to organizations that serve people in need is a much better plan for all involved than giving money to panhandling individuals. But many of those who you described were not requesting money to support what you term "bad habits" - they are feeding a disease called addiction, and with appropriate treatment they could recover their lives and their futures and become contributing citizens. Please add our outstanding and dedicated local treatment centers to your list of worthwhile causes to contribute to. Every dollar invested in treatment saves society many more dollars, as well as immeasurable benefits that recovery produces for individuals, families and communities.
ann arbor girl
Tue, Sep 29, 2009 : 8:50 a.m.
Kudos to Mr. Kinsey for this very honest and insightful story. He will no doubt take hits from very well-meaning (but uninformed) bloggers, but he clearly speaks from knowledge and experience. Another great nonprofit that works tirelessly to help people transition from the hell of alcoholism and drug addiction to sobriety is Dawn Farm who helps folks connect with the recovering community so they can make a new life for themselves. We help these individuals and our community by redirecting donations away from panhandlers to organizations like Delonis, Salvation Army, etc. Mr. Kinsey, thank you for taking time to write this story.