PANHANDLING: HOW TO HELP Give a Hand Up; not a Hand Out!
Studies around the country reveal that, by far,most homeless people are not panhandlers and MOST PANHANDLERS ARE NOT HOMELESS!
In many cases, they are people with addictions, and the money they ask for does not go toward a bus ride home or a prescription or a meal. Sadly, it often goes for a bottle of wine or a hit of cocaine or crack or a street pill. Digging in your pocket for change may salve your conscious for a moment, but it doesn’t change anything. And here’s what it does do—it encourages people to panhandle and not only does that help no one, it hurts downtown. For many, it is an intimidating experience, and the fact that 99% of panhandlers are harmless does not ease their unease. Just the sight of panhandlers sways potential buyers of the empty buildings I mentioned. It frightens folks who come downtown for an event or to shop. It magnifies the urban legend that downtown is dangerous. And, in almost every instance, panhandling downtown is illegal.
Here's what you can do: If you are asked for money, say “no” or just shake your head and walk on. Observe the panhandlers’ clothes, age and build. Walk a half block and take out your cell phone. Give us a call (251-0111) and report the panhandler’s location and description. We train to make distinctions between folks who need (and will accept) help and those who are scam artists and only want to take advantage of generous hearts. Let us direct the person to resources or, if he is not truly in need, encourage him to stop panhandling.
Our community has many needs and challenges in the area of combating homelessness. If you want to make a difference-- don’t give change. Make a change by volunteering with or contributing to the many agencies that work hard and get real results, like the Firehouse Shelter, Pathways, or First Light. All these agencies offer a depth of services that can transform lives. So, say “No” to panhandlers and “Yes” to the vision of our beautiful downtown being all it can be.
Did You Know?
Panhandling is Illegal;
Most panhandlers are not homeless;
Most homeless are not panhandlers;
Giving panhandlers money may support an addiction.
What To Do If You Are Panhandled:
Say “no” or just shake your head and walk on.
Telling the person you do not carry change may also be effective.
If you are in the CAP Service Area immediately call CAP at 251-0111.
Notice what the panhandler was wearing/looks
like and where he/she is headed. Give this information to CAP.
If you were panhandled in Five Points South or downtown outside the CAP Service Area, call ONB at 324-8797.
CAP and ONB are making “Give a Hand Up, Not a Hand Out Flyers”
available to businesses downtown and in Five Points South. Call CAP at
251-0111 or ONB at 324-8797 to request a copy.
You can also click here to download the PDF version and print it yourself.
For more information about how to help the homeless, click here.
According to City Ordinances 96-188 and 11-6-14 Panhandling Is Unlawful:
While loitering in a public place
In an aggressive manner
On private property
Using false information
At any transportation facility or
on any vehicle
Using profane or abusive language
Using two or more persons
Using threatening gestures
Using children
After sunset and before sunrise
Within 30 feet of any:
Public restroom
Business entrance or exit
ATM Bank deposit receptacle
Pay phone
Street vendor
Vending machine
*Aggressive manner means:
Approaching in a manner that causes a reasonable person to fear for their safety; Touching someone;
Continuously asking for money;
Blocking a person’s passage.
If you wish to contact us by e-mail, fax, phone or letter please contact us at:
City Action Partnership 1704 5th Avenue North
,
Birmingham AL
,
US
,
35203 Call:
205-251-0111 Email:
capbham@aol.com
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