I conducted an informal study, asking my friends and relatives what they
think at that moment:
"She needs it more than I."
"Hey, fella, McDonald's is hiring."
"My heart says, 'Give,' but my head says, 'Don't be a fool.'"
"I've already given five bucks this week. It's starting to affect my budget."
"I help in other ways. I work at a shelter, support social agencies, and pay
taxes."
The world of the homeless is confusing. Not only do professionals and
volunteers involved with the homeless wrestle with difficult questions such as
this--so does the average person who is approached on a subway platform, or
while walking down the street minding his or her own business.
Amazingly, we can make quite a difference in the lives of the homesless when
we respond to them, rather than ignore or dismiss them. Try a kind word.
Remember, their self confidence is nearly non-existent. Whatever we can say or
do that gives them even an iota of self-worth will have some benefit.
Real People
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54 Ways You Can Help
The Homeless - Overview