[redwitch]

Coming from an area where panhandling has increased tenfold since mental hospitals were closed and me being the type that will talk to almost anyone, here's my take. As the weather gets colder in northern climates, these people (not travelers nor gypsies but homeless people, many of whom who are mentally ill) come south and west if they possibly can. So, panhandling will increase in warmer climates during winter months.

Also, lawn people are now beginning to lay people off since grass is beginning to go dormant and weeds aren't popping up as much. This means these folks are also out of work, unable to collect unemployment (majority paid under the table). There really aren't that many options for them but panhandling.

Travelers (whether of Romany descent or otherwise) also come south during the winter. They are less apt to panhandle but more apt to scam people. Strangely, some of them are actually honest and will do an honest day's labor for an honest day's wage. As has always been said, don't pay someone until a job is done. Don't purchase something unless from someone reputable. Keep your eyes open but please don't pre-judge because someone's lifestyle is not yours.

Personally, I have no problems with handing a dollar to someone begging. It is hard, it is humiliating and there but for the grace of God, go I. If they choose to use that dollar to buy cigarettes or alcohol, that's their concern, not mine. My concern is treating every human as if they have value. So, I will continue to give my dollar with no regret. You are free to not give your dollar with no regret -- we each have to make our own choices.