Hoagland: Giving to Sun City panhandlers just encourages behavior
Posted
Yes, panhandlers and the homeless are a growing problem in our community.
Rita is correct (“Giving to panhandlers does not fix problems,” Sun City Independent, Aug. 18, 2021) that giving them cash encourages them while increasing the problem. A variety of reasons suggest that the number of homeless will become worse with more needing help and asking for support.
I believe that we all want to help the less fortunate. The best and safest way is through charities and agencies focused on feeding and sheltering the homeless. Giving to these organizations will provide the most positive effect from your gift.
Freedom of speech allows panhandlers to pursue gifts at busy locations. They are where they are because it works. As they choose the busiest locations they also cause the most danger. We have too many accidents already. Drivers must stay focused on driving — panhandlers are a distraction, a built-in risk.
A recent article mentioned that Greg Eisert had proposed a bill that might help reduce this exposure to drivers and panhandlers. We need to pursue this type of measure.
