The Sight of this is killing me

[Arbud]

Every time I leave my village area at Buenos Aries and 441 on one of the corners is this woman and her dog.
She obviously has had some issues in her life and may still have them. She is a panhandler. Which I dont have a problem with. I am not going to give her money.
My issue is that she has a bigger dog with her. It is always with her out in the hottest sun, usually under an umbrella. In 95 degrees i am not sure how much help the umbrella is.
Yesterday I saw them setting up shop and a man was carrying the dog. I feel I am just watching this dog slowly die.
I cant adopt it so that is out of the question. Not that they would let that happen because her sign even says " homeless with dog". She uses the dog as a ploy for help.
The Police have run her from one corner to across the street at the BJs and Lowes entrance.
So is there anyone I can call to have the dog taken from them and maybe nurtured back to health and adopted by a good home.
They live in the woods in back of the flooring store on 441 past Stonecrest. I just happened to see them going in the woods one day.
Sorry to seem so obsessed with this woman and her dog, but I see them sometimes 3 or 4 times a day. No I cant just look the other way.

[Shipping up to Boston]

Every time I leave my village area at Buenos Aries and 441 on one of the corners is this woman and her dog.
She obviously has had some issues in her life and may still have them. She is a panhandler. Which I dont have a problem with. I am not going to give her money.
My issue is that she has a bigger dog with her. It is always with her out in the hottest sun, usually under an umbrella. In 95 degrees i am not sure how much help the umbrella is.
Yesterday I saw them setting up shop and a man was carrying the dog. I feel I am just watching this dog slowly die.
I cant adopt it so that is out of the question. Not that they would let that happen because her sign even says " homeless with dog". She uses the dog as a ploy for help.
The Police have run her from one corner to across the street at the BJs and Lowes entrance.
So is there anyone I can call to have the dog taken from them and maybe nurtured back to health and adopted by a good home.
They live in the woods in back of the flooring store on 441 past Stonecrest. I just happened to see them going in the woods one day.
Sorry to seem so obsessed with this woman and her dog, but I see them sometimes 3 or 4 times a day. No I cant just look the other way.

Bring food and water....for the dog since that seems to be your biggest concern in the equation. Not sure LEO or the county is going to do a well being check on the animal....or forcibly remove it from its owner. The scenario is not ideal but unless there are outward signs of abuse....don’t exacerbate the situation. In the homeless community, your observations (while sad) are not an anomaly.

[Normal]

Every time I leave my village area at Buenos Aries and 441 on one of the corners is this woman and her dog.
She obviously has had some issues in her life and may still have them. She is a panhandler. Which I dont have a problem with. I am not going to give her money.
My issue is that she has a bigger dog with her. It is always with her out in the hottest sun, usually under an umbrella. In 95 degrees i am not sure how much help the umbrella is.
Yesterday I saw them setting up shop and a man was carrying the dog. I feel I am just watching this dog slowly die.
I cant adopt it so that is out of the question. Not that they would let that happen because her sign even says " homeless with dog". She uses the dog as a ploy for help.
The Police have run her from one corner to across the street at the BJs and Lowes entrance.
So is there anyone I can call to have the dog taken from them and maybe nurtured back to health and adopted by a good home.
They live in the woods in back of the flooring store on 441 past Stonecrest. I just happened to see them going in the woods one day.
Sorry to seem so obsessed with this woman and her dog, but I see them sometimes 3 or 4 times a day. No I cant just look the other way.

It’s kind of like the ASPCA (Corrected thanks to 4Sale) )leaving dogs on spiked chains and in emaciated conditions so they can film for their handouts on commercials. They are just working on a larger scale.

[OrangeBlossomBaby]

I see that woman all the time too. But since I've never spoken with her, I don't know what her situation is. She could be "using" the dog to garner pity-donations. Or it could be a service animal, if she's a mental health patient. When I first saw her at the light between Sonic and Walmart, the situation with a woman named Manda popped in my head.

Manda was homeless, living under a bridge in a tiny tent community she built out west. She had multiple brain injuries that make it hard for her to control her emotional expressions, and that made it hard for her to hold a job. Last I heard she's got an apartment and a part-time job (since that's all she's capable of working), the taxpayer dollars help cover her expenses but she is able to cover the rest with her job. And she had Rowan, her service dog to assist her when she has breakdowns (truly psychotic, she filmed one, it was pretty scary and I can't imagine BEING the person having that breakdown - just watching it was horrifying).

She had a blog on facebook and became an advocate for homeless people. She's pretty inspiring. Hasn't posted since January though and I don't follow her on other social media so no idea what she's up to now.

Log into Facebook | Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/mandycampmom/) is her website, for anyone who cares to learn more about homelessness and advocacy.

[PootleK]

Maybe her dog is literally the only thing she has left in her life, someone to talk to, someone to cuddle up with, someone to alert her when people are around at night. Lots of homeless people have dogs for this reason. Sounds like she's providing for the dog as best she can, even keeping him under an umbrella. Does he have water and food?

[ThirdOfFive]

I see that woman all the time too. But since I've never spoken with her, I don't know what her situation is. She could be "using" the dog to garner pity-donations. Or it could be a service animal, if she's a mental health patient. When I first saw her at the light between Sonic and Walmart, the situation with a woman named Manda popped in my head.

Manda was homeless, living under a bridge in a tiny tent community she built out west. She had multiple brain injuries that make it hard for her to control her emotional expressions, and that made it hard for her to hold a job. Last I heard she's got an apartment and a part-time job (since that's all she's capable of working), the taxpayer dollars help cover her expenses but she is able to cover the rest with her job. And she had Rowan, her service dog to assist her when she has breakdowns (truly psychotic, she filmed one, it was pretty scary and I can't imagine BEING the person having that breakdown - just watching it was horrifying).

She had a blog on facebook and became an advocate for homeless people. She's pretty inspiring. Hasn't posted since January though and I don't follow her on other social media so no idea what she's up to now.

Log into Facebook | Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/mandycampmom/) is her website, for anyone who cares to learn more about homelessness and advocacy.
"She could be "using" the dog to garner pity-donations."

Not unheard-of.

Visiting Thailand awhile back my wife and I saw a woman with a young child lying in the grass near one of the skytrain stations in Bangkok. She had a jar in which there was some money. My wife is ethnic Thai so we stopped to chat with the woman. She said she was from Isaan (upcountry), and had an accident about a year back that left her crippled. She couldn't make ends meet in Bangkok so she was raising money to go back home so she and her child could live with relatives. I gave her 100 baht for which she thanked me profusely. We left on the skytrain and came back to the station a couple of hours later to find the woman and child gone. We asked the skytrain cop what had happened to her. He laughed and said her boyfriend came and picked her and the child up, as they do every day apparently. The woman wasn't crippled, and the baby wasn't hers. Turns out there are places in Bangkok where you can rent babies for just this purpose.

Maybe there are dog-rental places around here? Who knows. Pity is a great motivator.

[4$ALE]

It’s kind of like the USPCA leaving dogs on spiked chains and in emaciated conditions so they can film for their handouts on commercials. They are just working on a larger scale.

:shrug: Possibly you meant the ASPCA?

[shut the front door]

I've come across many beggars who bring a dog or children along to gain sympathy. I once offered on of them $50 for the dog. They declined. I went up to $100 and they still said no. It's a bait dog. Don't fall for the scam.

[Pugchief]

I know nothing about this particular woman or her dog, but I can tell you that in the UpNorth suburb I spend 6 months living in there are well known panhandlers at certain intersections asking for money when the long light turns red. They always have a dog or young children and a cardboard sign about being hungry. Apparently, they park their Lexus/BMW/Cadillac down the street, out of sight. The word is you can make close to $100,000 / year panhandling like this (tax free!!) while simultaneously getting EBT, section 8 and other govt benefits.

No, I have no proof, no I don't know if it applies to this woman, and yes I know there are many people in legit need of help. However, IMO, if you really need help, panhandling is not your best option. People often end up like this bc they choose to.

If your concern is for the dog, bring the dog some dry dog food and perhaps a bottle of water.

[Pugchief]

On a related note, on a trip to New Orleans a few years ago, we wandered around the French Quarter and were mystified by multiple panhandlers and their dogs sitting on the street, literally underneath a help wanted sign. Draw you own conclusions.

[Shipping up to Boston]

I know nothing about this particular woman or her dog, but I can tell you that in the UpNorth suburb I spend 6 months living in there are well known panhandlers at certain intersections asking for money when the long light turns red. They always have a dog or young children and a cardboard sign about being hungry. Apparently, they park their Lexus/BMW/Cadillac down the street, out of sight. The word is you can make close to $100,000 / year panhandling like this (tax free!!) while simultaneously getting EBT, section 8 and other govt benefits.

No, I have no proof, no I don't know if it applies to this woman, and yes I know there are many people in legit need of help. However, IMO, if you really need help, panhandling is not your best option. People often end up like this bc they choose to.

If your concern is for the dog, bring the dog some dry dog food and perhaps a bottle of water.

“No, I have no proof......”:1rotfl:

[Pugchief]

“No, I have no proof......”:1rotfl:

Yep, I knew someone would snark that, so I stated it in advance. Doesn't mean it's not true, only that I didn't personally follow them home.

Do you own due diligence, as always. Things are not as they seem, as always. And feel free to infer whatever you want from the anecdote, or not. Gaslighting has become a multi million dollar business, and it's not just the media and the pols doing it. Fake panhandlers can gaslight, too.

[FredMitchell]

I find it sad that you could be more concerned about the condition of a dog than a human being.

Try talking to the woman next time you see her. Learn her story. It probably is not a good one. Put yourself in homeless shoes and whatever the rest of her condition might be. What would you do in those circumstances? What would you think about a person that came up and cared more for your dog, which might be protecting you, than you?

[Taltarzac725]

I find it sad that you could be more concerned about the condition of a dog than a human being.

Try talking to the woman next time you see her. Learn her story. It probably is not a good one. Put yourself in homeless shoes and whatever the rest of her condition might be. What would you do in those circumstances? What would you think about a person that came up and cared more for your dog, which might be protecting you, than you?

I recall an Orlando teacher voluntarily lived with the homeless for months to get a sense of what they went through. It was eye- opening. This was quite a while ago though but I think I posted about it on Talk of the Villages.

Thomas Rebman is the man.

[Shipping up to Boston]

Yep, I knew someone would snark that, so I stated it in advance. Doesn't mean it's not true, only that I didn't personally follow them home.

Do you own due diligence, as always. Things are not as they seem, as always. And feel free to infer whatever you want from the anecdote, or not. Gaslighting has become a multi million dollar business, and it's not just the media and the pols doing it. Fake panhandlers can gaslight, too.

Just because one ‘states in advance’ that you ‘have no proof’ about what you’re about to post....doesn’t absolve you from making non credible statements. To say that ‘you were told’ that panhandlers up north are pulling in 100K a year and exiting their ‘workplace’ in BMW, Cadillacs.....without personal knowledge of such...is irresponsible. That is my point. Drug dealers, pimps would’ve been a more credible premise...even without the receipts!

[fdpaq0580]

Just because one ‘states in advance’ that you ‘have no proof’ about what you’re about to post....doesn’t absolve you from making non credible statements. To say that ‘you were told’ that panhandlers up north are pulling in 100K a year and exiting their ‘workplace’ in BMW, Cadillacs.....without personal knowledge of such...is irresponsible. That is my point. Drug dealers, pimps would’ve been a more credible premise...even without the receipts!

He "was told". What he heard and passed along was hearsay, not necessarily non-credible. I have read many articles and reports that have said as much. And, on occasion have observed what certainly appeared like they were picking up the "workers" at the end of their shift. One article even reported there were "schools" that teach the various types, tools, dress, stories, etc, that one might use to elicit the most sympathy. Their product? Making you feel good for helping someone you believe is unfortunate. Problem is, you don’t know who is the legit unfortunate individual or a scammer. It's your money. You decide what you want to spend it on.

[Shipping up to Boston]

He "was told". What he heard and passed along was hearsay, not necessarily non-credible. I have read many articles and reports that have said as much. And, on occasion have observed what certainly appeared like they were picking up the "workers" at the end of their shift. One article even reported there were "schools" that teach the various types, tools, dress, stories, etc, that one might use to elicit the most sympathy. Their product? Making you feel good for helping someone you believe is unfortunate. Problem is, you don’t know who is the legit unfortunate individual or a scammer. It's your money. You decide what you want to spend it on.

The ‘schools’ that you’re referring to are called jails. With the exception of some state colleges and universities.....at least ‘that’s what I’ve been told’! ;)

[jamorela]

"She could be "using" the dog to garner pity-donations."

Not unheard-of.

Visiting Thailand awhile back my wife and I saw a woman with a young child lying in the grass near one of the skytrain stations in Bangkok. She had a jar in which there was some money. My wife is ethnic Thai so we stopped to chat with the woman. She said she was from Isaan (upcountry), and had an accident about a year back that left her crippled. She couldn't make ends meet in Bangkok so she was raising money to go back home so she and her child could live with relatives. I gave her 100 baht for which she thanked me profusely. We left on the skytrain and came back to the station a couple of hours later to find the woman and child gone. We asked the skytrain cop what had happened to her. He laughed and said her boyfriend came and picked her and the child up, as they do every day apparently. The woman wasn't crippled, and the baby wasn't hers. Turns out there are places in Bangkok where you can rent babies for just this purpose.

Maybe there are dog-rental places around here? Who knows. Pity is a great motivator.

I saw that same scenario in India.

[threeonemiles@outlook.com]

Every time I leave my village area at Buenos Aries and 441 on one of the corners is this woman and her dog.
She obviously has had some issues in her life and may still have them. She is a panhandler. Which I dont have a problem with. I am not going to give her money.
My issue is that she has a bigger dog with her. It is always with her out in the hottest sun, usually under an umbrella. In 95 degrees i am not sure how much help the umbrella is.
Yesterday I saw them setting up shop and a man was carrying the dog. I feel I am just watching this dog slowly die.
I cant adopt it so that is out of the question. Not that they would let that happen because her sign even says " homeless with dog". She uses the dog as a ploy for help.
The Police have run her from one corner to across the street at the BJs and Lowes entrance.
So is there anyone I can call to have the dog taken from them and maybe nurtured back to health and adopted by a good home.
They live in the woods in back of the flooring store on 441 past Stonecrest. I just happened to see them going in the woods one day.
Sorry to seem so obsessed with this woman and her dog, but I see them sometimes 3 or 4 times a day. No I cant just look the other way.
I saw this person recently and she did look healthy, well fed and the dog was also. What I noticed was, the tattoos she had. It is expensive to have them and by the looks of her, she spent a lot of money. It would be interesting to ask her where she got the money.

[dougjb]

Anyone who thinks standing by the side of the road in the Florida sun is a scam and that these people make exorbitant sums of money .... should just get themselves out there to see what it is really like. Go stand on the side of the street and revel in what merriment you might be enjoying. Too often we rely upon stories told to us by other who "know". I doubt if they know to be perfectly frank.

While you may not be inclined to part with your money, you should just drive on and not disparage people who but for the grace of god could be you tomorrow!

Personally, since I cannot afford to give to everyone who asks for money, I take it upon myself to "adopt" one of these people. Every couple of weeks, I drop them a twenty. I really don't care what they use it on. If I was reduced to begging on the streets, I might want to use a twenty to go get totally drunk. I won't deny someone to do what they want with the funds they have in their possession. It is their choice. Giving them a chunk of money is my choice.

[Marine1974]

Didn’t stop to offer aid want others to
do something. How is it killing you ?

[DonnaNi4os]

I have seen her and I have heard many well meaning people discussing this particular woman and dog many times. I have to assume that the sheriff dept is aware and would have had animal control remove the dog if it was at risk. Understandably people have expressed concern for the dog, yet I’ve heard few people express concern for the woman. Perhaps she’s a con, perhaps she is a woman who is really down and out and the only thing she has left is her dog. It is not for me to judge her. There are so many people on the verge of homelessness who would give their last morsel of food to their beloved pet. Let’s have compassion for both of them. Give to them or don’t. I’m praying for them both.

[Taltarzac725]

I have seen her and I have heard many well meaning people discussing this particular woman and dog many times. I have to assume that the sheriff dept is aware and would have had animal control remove the dog if it was at risk. Understandably people have expressed concern for the dog, yet I’ve heard few people express concern for the woman. Perhaps she’s a con, perhaps she is a woman who is really down and out and the only thing she has left is her dog. It is not for me to judge her. There are so many people on the verge of homelessness who would give their last morsel of food to their beloved pet. Let’s have compassion for both of them. Give to them or don’t. I’m praying for them both.

Nicely put.

[Shipping up to Boston]

It’s good to see that TV faux doctors were able to give the woman and her dog a clean bill of health (physically and mentally)....from the comforts of their air conditioned vehicle....and all within a 30 sec. traffic interaction. And bonus tattoo observations as well. My faith in health care has been restored

[Arbud]

Hey Marine 1974. I asked if there was someone I could call. Maybe the words killing me were a bit exaggerated. It makes me feel very uncomfortable. Thank you for your service. Bud

[alehew]

All I can say as since all businesses don't have enough workers that people that don't want to work don't.
Most people on a corner collecting money just cause they can. I never give money I tell them to find churches or shelters that would help. We never give money only offer food at restaurants where we go with

[Joe C.]

No matter what, is there any reason that she couldn't get a job?
Even washing dishes ...... she'd be inside, not socializing with many people and she'd be safe AND making money that she EARNED. There's a lot of places looking for help.

[fdpaq0580]

The ‘schools’ that you’re referring to are called jails. With the exception of some state colleges and universities.....at least ‘that’s what I’ve been told’! ;)

As you wish. 🙄

[CybrSage]

So is there anyone I can call to have the dog taken from them and maybe nurtured back to health and adopted by a good home.

She has little to nothing and you want to take away her only companion, her only family, causing her more suffering.

Don't be the guy who adds more suffering to her life.

[OrangeBlossomBaby]

No matter what, is there any reason that she couldn't get a job?
Even washing dishes ...... she'd be inside, not socializing with many people and she'd be safe AND making money that she EARNED. There's a lot of places looking for help.

Many homeless have mental disabilities that make it impossible for them to work. They might be eligible for (and might even be collecting) disability payments, but the thing that makes them unable to work might also make them unable to handle finances.

People with brain injuries - especially battered women - are not always CAPABLE of being responsible for their own lives. Some live in shelters, some live in tents. Some live in abusive households, some live in small homeless camps where everyone pitches in to help each other as best they can.

This particular woman is not alone, no idea who the guy is, or his relationship to her. But he sometimes picks her up. I've seen her walking down 441 from 42 with her dog, but I've also seen the guy pick her up in his old car that looks like it could use some repairs. Her shoes aren't brand new designer shoes. Her dog's collar is not a fancy one. There are "tells" with homeless. She brushes her hair. So she does try to at least appear like she engages in self-care practices.

As for tattoos, I have two of them. I got them 40 years ago. I used to hang out with homeless people and some of them had many inks, most of them acquired while they were serving in the military overseas, some got theirs in jail, and one of them used to be an ink artist, before she became homeless, and had all hers done by her partners in the shop (which went out of business and she lost her investment, couldn't pay the rent, lost everything except her car, which she ended up sleeping in).

Sure this woman with the dog could very well be some nasty lice-ridden drug-addled no-good trampy "scallawag." Or she could be one of the millions of homeless in this country who had opportunity, and for whatever reason, lost the opportunity, and are now down on their luck and trying to subsist and survive a world where people make assumptions about them and refuse to give them any opportunity, thus keeping them down as dirt under the feet of the rest of humanity.

[GizmoWhiskers]

Every time I leave my village area at Buenos Aries and 441 on one of the corners is this woman and her dog.
She obviously has had some issues in her life and may still have them. She is a panhandler. Which I dont have a problem with. I am not going to give her money.
My issue is that she has a bigger dog with her. It is always with her out in the hottest sun, usually under an umbrella. In 95 degrees i am not sure how much help the umbrella is.
Yesterday I saw them setting up shop and a man was carrying the dog. I feel I am just watching this dog slowly die.
I cant adopt it so that is out of the question. Not that they would let that happen because her sign even says " homeless with dog". She uses the dog as a ploy for help.
The Police have run her from one corner to across the street at the BJs and Lowes entrance.
So is there anyone I can call to have the dog taken from them and maybe nurtured back to health and adopted by a good home.
They live in the woods in back of the flooring store on 441 past Stonecrest. I just happened to see them going in the woods one day.
Sorry to seem so obsessed with this woman and her dog, but I see them sometimes 3 or 4 times a day. No I cant just look the other way.
Yes. Saw her at WAWA area. Sickening for the dog.

[dougawhite]

I always have believed John Stossel; his reporting is non-biased and well-researched. On the topic of panhandlers, here is what he found: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IHoiVnID8vY

[Shipping up to Boston]

I always have believed John Stossel; his reporting is non-biased and well-researched. On the topic of panhandlers, here is what he found: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IHoiVnID8vY

What’s the point?
That there are outliers. You need a 7 yr old report by Stossel....on the mean streets of Salt Lake City to figure that out.

[Lea N]

I have seen her and I have heard many well meaning people discussing this particular woman and dog many times. I have to assume that the sheriff dept is aware and would have had animal control remove the dog if it was at risk. Understandably people have expressed concern for the dog, yet I’ve heard few people express concern for the woman. Perhaps she’s a con, perhaps she is a woman who is really down and out and the only thing she has left is her dog. It is not for me to judge her. There are so many people on the verge of homelessness who would give their last morsel of food to their beloved pet. Let’s have compassion for both of them. Give to them or don’t. I’m praying for them both.

Yes, let's have compassion for them both. Many women who are homeless have dogs for companionship and protection. Maybe she had this dog before she became homeless? Homeless women are targets. Offering her a meal and something to drink as well as her dog would be a kind gesture. Many homeless people split the food they have with their pets.

[Pugchief]

What’s the point?
That there are outliers. You need a 7 yr old report by Stossel....on the mean streets of Salt Lake City to figure that out.

What makes you think they are "outliers" rather then the norm? You can bash this reality all you want, but all Doug and I are trying to say is Caveat Emptor.

[Shipping up to Boston]

What makes you think they are "outliers" rather then the norm? You can bash this reality all you want, but all Doug and I are trying to say is Caveat Emptor.

So you dismiss poverty, mental illness or economic circumstances as ‘the norm’ ....in favor of a narrative of actors/actresses cosplaying as the homeless on the streets making ‘100K a year and driving BMW, Lexus and Cadillacs’ as the norm? ‘Or so you heard’! Yeah, that’s what I thought!

[gail swanson]

Bring food and water....for the dog since that seems to be your biggest concern in the equation. Not sure LEO or the county is going to do a well being check on the animal....or forcibly remove it from its owner. The scenario is not ideal but unless there are outward signs of abuse....don’t exacerbate the situation. In the homeless community, your observations (while sad) are not an anomaly.

Food and water a great idea

[JMintzer]

I always have believed John Stossel; his reporting is non-biased and well-researched. On the topic of panhandlers, here is what he found: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IHoiVnID8vY

Or this story... Begging during the day and driving away in a Mercedes...

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CynYgP8PcWc

Or this fake handicapped panhandler...

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PSprgVjLFgk

Now, I'm sure there are many who are truly down on their luck, but stories like these don't exactly instill confidence...

[JMintzer]

So you dismiss poverty, mental illness or economic circumstances as ‘the norm’ ....in favor of a narrative of actors/actresses cosplaying as the homeless on the streets making ‘100K a year and driving BMW, Lexus and Cadillacs’ as the norm? ‘Or so you heard’! Yeah, that’s what I thought!

Or so I heard? No, as was videotaped and reported on the news...

[JMintzer]

What makes you think they are "outliers" rather then the norm? You can bash this reality all you want, but all Doug and I are trying to say is Caveat Emptor.

Because it helps promote the "look how compassionate I am" narrative...

[Shipping up to Boston]

Or this story... Begging during the day and driving away in a Mercedes...

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CynYgP8PcWc

Or this fake handicapped panhandler...

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PSprgVjLFgk

Now, I'm sure there are many who are truly down on their luck, but stories like these don't exactly instill confidence...

How about some YT videos of police impersonators.....maybe some military ‘stolen valor’ videos too. Again, my point was there are outliers everywhere. Even in your profession....fake ‘doctors’ setting up shop in private homes. All the above, I’m sure, under your premise....doesn’t exactly instill confidence either

[OrangeBlossomBaby]

How about some YT videos of police impersonators.....maybe some military ‘stolen valor’ videos too. Again, my point was there are outliers everywhere. Even in your profession....fake ‘doctors’ setting up shop in private homes. All the above, I’m sure, under your premise....doesn’t exactly instill confidence either

Folks like John Stossel vet their subjects carefully. They'll interview a couple dozen homeless people who they THINK are scamming (brand new shoes, clean pressed clothing, etc), and then when they get the few who admit to running a con, will put THOSE people on tape.

The ones who are in sincere and genuine need of help, who are doing what they can to survive, are not recorded because it doesn't fit their agenda.

Meanwhile in that video - he recorded brief moments of street musicians. So - I WAS a street musician. I EARNED the money. I provided entertainment, and people could tip me for it. I had a buskers' license, and busking/street performing is an actual thing. It's not panhandling.

The fact that they add those performers in with their propaganda tells me very plainly that they are just catering to the whitewashed wealthy who would prefer not to notice that their maid has a foreign accent.

[Myszka0611]

She has little to nothing and you want to take away her only companion, her only family, causing her more suffering.

Don't be the guy who adds more suffering to her life.

The dog is not her only family. Her boyfriend also panhandles in the area. I know their names, but won’t post them here. She and her boyfriend and dog live, as someone else posted, in a tent in the woods. They are sometimes joined by another dread-locked woman who pretends to be disabled. She often uses her mother’s walker, as she lives in her mother’s house and has access to it. The mother has Parkinsons.

The panhandlers have a turquoise blue golf cart that they tool around in. They charge their iPhones using the outside electrical outlets at many of the businesses at that intersection. The businesses in the area have all filed “NO TRESPASS” reports with the sheriff. They are only allowed in the median or public sidewalks. They work in shifts, like a job. They have been given money and shown where the food pantries are available. They don’t want help, or a job. They want to dupe well-meaning people out of their hard earned money. That poor dog is used as a prop. The dog does love them, I will say that

[JMintzer]

How about some YT videos of police impersonators.....maybe some military ‘stolen valor’ videos too. Again, my point was there are outliers everywhere. Even in your profession....fake ‘doctors’ setting up shop in private homes. All the above, I’m sure, under your premise....doesn’t exactly instill confidence either

How 'bout you make up stuff that has nothing to do with the topic at hand...

[GoRedSox!]

When we get back to The Villages, my wife and I will make it a point to help this woman and her dog. We don't have to give her money, there are plenty of things we can provide that is not cash.

I don't give a damn if she is a con artist. If she is, then she beats me, I don't care.

It's not my job or within my ability to determine who is worthy of some help. I just know it is my job to help those in need. I know many are worthy, I just might not know exactly which ones. It's a bigger error for me to not give because I might be making a mistake than to give knowing I might be making a mistake.

I am not going to ask anyone to believe the same things that I do. However, I will tell you what I believe. Matthew 25 31-46 provides a specific and detailed description of exactly how we will be judged. I won't quote the entire thing, but the sum is basically, "whatsoever you do to the least of my brothers and sisters, that you do unto me." MT 25 is the foundation of my faith. I don't care if she beats me, if she does, that is her issue to deal with.

[Shipping up to Boston]

How 'bout you make up stuff that has nothing to do with the topic at hand...

If you read the while thread in its entirety...you would know the context of what was being posted. We were talking about 'outliers'. The point of my post is that they exist across society...in all genres.

[Shipping up to Boston]

When we get back to The Villages, my wife and I will make it a point to help this woman and her dog. We don't have to give her money, there are plenty of things we can provide that is not cash.

I don't give a damn if she is a con artist. If she is, then she beats me, I don't care.

It's not my job or within my ability to determine who is worthy of some help. I just know it is my job to help those in need. I know many are worthy, I just might not know exactly which ones. It's a bigger error for me to not give because I might be making a mistake than to give knowing I might be making a mistake.

I am not going to ask anyone to believe the same things that I do. However, I will tell you what I believe. Matthew 25 31-46 provides a specific and detailed description of exactly how we will be judged. I won't quote the entire thing, but the sum is basically, "whatsoever you do to the least of my brothers and sisters, that you do unto me." MT 25 is the foundation of my faith. I don't care if she beats me, if she does, that is her issue to deal with.

Religious beliefs aside...i agree with you. Most on here want to make it a political statement...and vett the individual. I will never understand why giving someone some water, a sandwich, a couple t shirts/socks from Dollar Tree etc... is so offensive on this site.

[Myszka0611]

Religious beliefs aside...i agree with you. Most on here want to make it a political statement...and vett the individual. I will never understand why giving someone some water, a sandwich, a couple t shirts/socks from Dollar Tree etc... is so offensive on this site.

Because some of us don’t like being lied to, that’s why. For the same reason I try not to get scammed by online scammers, or scammed by fake car warranties, or someone who tries to give me a fake check to deposit. I don’t like giving my money to anyone who lies to get my money. Be sincere as to what you want my money for. I’ve seen panhandlers signs that say “I want to buy beer”. At least they’re honest. That woman and her boyfriend are dishonest. THAT’S the issue. Give or don’t give, it makes no difference to me. But there’s nothing wrong with the many of us who do not wish to be taken advantage of

[Shipping up to Boston]

Because some of us don’t like being lied to, that’s why. For the same reason I try not to get scammed by online scammers, or scammed by fake car warranties, or someone who tries to give me a fake check to deposit. I don’t like giving my money to anyone who lies to get my money. Be sincere as to what you want my money for. I’ve seen panhandlers signs that say “I want to buy beer”. At least they’re honest. That woman and her boyfriend are dishonest. THAT’S the issue. Give or don’t give, it makes no difference to me. But there’s nothing wrong with the many of us who do not wish to be taken advantage of

If you noticed, I said nothing about giving money. I still enjoyed your rant tho

[Velvet]

When we get back to The Villages, my wife and I will make it a point to help this woman and her dog. We don't have to give her money, there are plenty of things we can provide that is not cash.

I don't give a damn if she is a con artist. If she is, then she beats me, I don't care.

It's not my job or within my ability to determine who is worthy of some help. I just know it is my job to help those in need. I know many are worthy, I just might not know exactly which ones. It's a bigger error for me to not give because I might be making a mistake than to give knowing I might be making a mistake.

I am not going to ask anyone to believe the same things that I do. However, I will tell you what I believe. Matthew 25 31-46 provides a specific and detailed description of exactly how we will be judged. I won't quote the entire thing, but the sum is basically, "whatsoever you do to the least of my brothers and sisters, that you do unto me." MT 25 is the foundation of my faith. I don't care if she beats me, if she does, that is her issue to deal with.

Yes, but in these days, unlike during St. Matthew’s days, we have social services. If those institutions don’t do a good enough job, in one’s opinion, then it is up to them to work towards policy change. Instead of helping only one person or one dog, that way many more might be reached.

[Pugchief]

Or this story... Begging during the day and driving away in a Mercedes...

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CynYgP8PcWc

Or this fake handicapped panhandler...

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PSprgVjLFgk

Now, I'm sure there are many who are truly down on their luck, but stories like these don't exactly instill confidence...

Yep, thanks Doc

[Pugchief]

Because some of us don’t like being lied to, that’s why. For the same reason I try not to get scammed by online scammers, or scammed by fake car warranties, or someone who tries to give me a fake check to deposit. I don’t like giving my money to anyone who lies to get my money. Be sincere as to what you want my money for. I’ve seen panhandlers signs that say “I want to buy beer”. At least they’re honest. That woman and her boyfriend are dishonest. THAT’S the issue. Give or don’t give, it makes no difference to me. But there’s nothing wrong with the many of us who do not wish to be taken advantage of

:BigApplause:

[Pairadocs]

It’s kind of like the ASPCA (Corrected thanks to 4Sale) )leaving dogs on spiked chains and in emaciated conditions so they can film for their handouts on commercials. They are just working on a larger scale.

Doesn't pertain to this situation but, yes, those ASPCA commercials are REALLY distasteful, beyond that even, they are despicable... also reminds me of some charity organizations that go into dreadfully poor locations, film the desperately hungry and starving children and elderly... hand them a banana, or a cup of hot tea (which the grab gratefully and literally kiss the hand of the charity person.... and that's it. They walk away saying "someone", "only YOU", can help these desperate people ! ! Makes you wonder who thinks up such ads ?

[CarlR33]

He "was told". What he heard and passed along was hearsay, not necessarily non-credible. I have read many articles and reports that have said as much. And, on occasion have observed what certainly appeared like they were picking up the "workers" at the end of their shift. One article even reported there were "schools" that teach the various types, tools, dress, stories, etc, that one might use to elicit the most sympathy. Their product? Making you feel good for helping someone you believe is unfortunate. Problem is, you don’t know who is the legit unfortunate individual or a scammer. It's your money. You decide what you want to spend it on. Up north there is a family well know to hit the traffic areas of the strip malls with baby, mom and father pan handling. It has to be somewhat lucrative and tax free helps. Your going to eventually hit the lottery when someone gives you that $10, 20 or 50 spot a few times so why not?

[OrangeBlossomBaby]

To whoever said they have a problem with people lying to get their money...

don't ever buy anything from anyone, anywhere, ever. Part of the job of retail workers is to lie. "Pleasure to serve you!" is a lie. It's not a pleasure. It's their job, they're only doing it because they get paid. "Have a nice day!" is retail-speak for "NEXT!" - another lie. "Oh you really should get the extended warranty, you can swap out for a brand new printer before your three year period is up!" is a lie. What they really mean is: "the corporation counts how many warranties we sell and if I sell the most I get an extra $3 in my paycheck next week. I have no idea if this warranty is any good, and I don't care. I just want you to buy it."

"The powdered milk is in aisle 13." means "IF we have any in stock, it's in aisle 13. But we might be out of it, in which case you should just try another store."

[Shipping up to Boston]

Yes, I was talking about things that actually happened...

Not made up nonsense...

This is a couple of examples to support what I posted....or as you refer to it as ‘made up nonsense’....

https://www.google.com/url?q=https://m.youtube.com/watch%3Fv%3Dox1zwCBeRTY&sa=U&ved=2ahUKEwjxvrLFpoeHAxVhEFkFHQ0zD4UQtwJ6BAgDEAE&usg=AOvVaw3CvAp8tFi_kWeM0R3eRHXu


https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.youtube.com/watch%3Fv%3DnW2OSsTuCxM&sa=U&ved=2ahUKEwiugLqkp4eHAxUqM1kFHTaQC70QtwJ6BAgIEAE&usg=AOvVaw0eiXH9jUXrQvQTB--7E-xl

I can attach some faux doctor videos as well but I don’t want to pile on the ‘nonsense’!

[capecoralbill]

they are a traffic hazard.

[Myszka0611]

To whoever said they have a problem with people lying to get their money...

don't ever buy anything from anyone, anywhere, ever. Part of the job of retail workers is to lie. "Pleasure to serve you!" is a lie. It's not a pleasure. It's their job, they're only doing it because they get paid. "Have a nice day!" is retail-speak for "NEXT!" - another lie. "Oh you really should get the extended warranty, you can swap out for a brand new printer before your three year period is up!" is a lie. What they really mean is: "the corporation counts how many warranties we sell and if I sell the most I get an extra $3 in my paycheck next week. I have no idea if this warranty is any good, and I don't care. I just want you to buy it."

"The powdered milk is in aisle 13." means "IF we have any in stock, it's in aisle 13. But we might be out of it, in which case you should just try another store."

If you equate retail employees’ pleasantries and upsell attempts the same as lies and outright scam attempts, I don’t know what to tell you. Nice stretch though…keeps the brain limber

[Shipping up to Boston]

So to that same poster....your examples of being sold 'extended warranties' or being 'online scammed'....equates to someone giving a bottled water to a panhandler at an intersection? OBB 'retail' example is just pointing out the hypocrisy...and gullibility of some...like that you live in FL "Friendliest Hometown"!

[Shipping up to Boston]

My "made up nonsense" referred to your incessant "whataboutisms".

Staying on topic seems to be difficult for some.

WE have a great mentor to that end...

[JMintzer]

WE have a great mentor to that end...

Thanks for proving my point...

[GoRedSox!]

So to that same poster....your examples of being sold 'extended warranties' or being 'online scammed'....equates to someone giving a bottled water to a panhandler at an intersection? OBB 'retail' example is just pointing out the hypocrisy...and gullibility of some...like that you live in FL "Friendliest Hometown"!I have a feeling that there is a lot of generosity towards the homeless in The Villages. If no one was giving this woman anything, she wouldn't be standing where she is.

[Shipping up to Boston]

Thanks for proving my point...

Anytime...Doc. Have a great DC day