"Are they really in need or just scamming me"?
While most people love to give to those in need, there are those people who panhandle as a method of income.
1. Their Gratitude or Attitude
One thing that helps to see if a person is truly in need is their attitude. While many people are leery of giving money, offer to buy them a sandwich or something to drink or even a days work for pay.
If they refuse the food, then they must not be in need.
Many alcoholics and drug dealers find that begging is one of the best ways to get the money they need for their next fix with meth, heroin or their drug of choice. Anyone that is truly down on their luck will gladly take any food that is offered to them, even if they just ate.
2. Their Appearance
If someone is homeless, you don’t expect them to be sitting there in nice clothes. Look for things that might tip you off that they are faking. Things like piercings, nice clothes, and even tennis shoes can be an indication of a fake. However, that doesn’t mean that people haven’t donated to them either. If they are a homeless person, they probably will need a good bath and may have an odor to prove it.
Also, a good indication of someone in real need is what they have with them. Someone in real need is going to have a bag or two, sometimes a sleeping bag with them. Think all their worldly possessions in a couple of bags. They are not going to put their stuff out of eye sight. People that are scamming you will NOT have these items so be on the lookout.
3. Observe the Surroundings
If the person is running a scam, they could be part of a larger group in operation. They may have a cell phone on them, or they may have a car parked close by for a quick getaway. Look for any abandoned cars or a bike close to them. If this is a group operation, the individuals may communicate via cellphone so they know where to relocate or when to make a quick get-away.
4. You See the Same Person Over and Over
People who panhandle on a daily basis are often habitual and play off the sympathy of others. It’s possible that they are doing it as a job not out of need. And yes, there are a lot of the same people that frequent the same areas.
Two reports from HUD, roughly 60% of people panhandling are actually not in need, leaving roughly 4 in 10 people either homeless, penniless or simply in need of work.
Is it good to help others, yes indeed! BUT helping a scammer doesn't help truly needed people.
However, if you REALLY WANT TO HELP, then donate to a local organization that works with the homeless, those in need of food and clothes and organizations that help place families in housing too. You can find a list of them here.
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