I work downtown where there are a fair number of people on the corners asking for handouts, that I run into on the way to/from the bus stop. I keep a few granola bars in my jacket pocket.
I used to offer them to anyone asking for any handout, and got turned down half the time, often with either a disappointed look or a sheepish grin.
I figure those are the free-loaders. I really can't tell from appearance. One guy looked pretty legitimate, then I saw him a few minutes later talking on his cell phone and sipping a Starbucks coffee while he handed off his cardboard sign to a friend.
I changed my tactic. Now, if they ask for money, I say no. If they ask for "anything would help", I offer a granola bar. Haven't been turned down yet, and usually get an eager and/or grateful response. So at least in my area, people asking for "anything" seem a lot more legitimate than the ones asking for money.
- Alan
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