This is becoming more common in my town. I just either feel like an ass saying I dont have cash, or lying, but I also can’t be giving out 20’s to everyone who asks.

I feel bad for most of them but at the same time I get anxiety walking down the sidewalk and seeing someone up ahead that I know is going to ask me for money. Its not like you can say “oh no, I donate to services that help the needy” because that person isn’t necessarily being helped by that. And ignoring completely feels so mean, plus I tried that one time and the person was screaming at me as i walked away that I ignored them.

I also dont want my city to round them up and send them to prison camps, something they are planning and that I know a lot of people would vote for just to “get rid of them” but im not supporting that at all.

Its tough.

  • mojofrododojo@lemmy.worldEnglish
    15·
    17 hours ago

    when community aid doesn’t actually aid the community - we have lots of shelters with rules against pets, couples, drinking etc., - religious orgs primarily who want to force their values on the victims.

    Everytime you’re tempted to give cash, give that much to a local shelter or kitchen.

    I disagree, there’s something to be said for helping individuals when you can. And there are lots of individuals who will not seek institutional aid for a number of valid reasons.