[NoFerrariContent] Panhandling problem seems to get out of control in Portland/Beaverton these days, everyday I see a couple of them, even in mall and supemarket parking lots. Eventhough knowing that most are scammers, I still feel bad if I don't give. I finally solve this problem by having a jar in a cup holder. Everytime I drive pass a panhandler, I'd put some money into the jar. Every couple of weeks, I'd take the jar to (a strip joint, just kidding) Portland Rescue Mission and donate the bucks. If most of us would do this, I think the number of panhandlers would be reduced, and real needy people would benefit. - Nguyen
I too feel for these guys/girls-so when I stop at the light I reach into my left pocket-take out a dollar bill--and put it in my right pocket! I feel so much better.
And if you look very close you'll see most of them are using the back of my Jobdango signs... I'm forced to contribute like it or not. Go figure!
It's not like there are a dearth of Jobdango signs or anything... Those guys really piss me off. I don't know if any of you guys read the Willy Week article on them last year, but it run almost like organized crime. They pay protection money for their particular street corner, basically leasing it from some goon with a couple of tough guys. Pretty crazy. Plus most of these people aren't homeless at all. I like your idea of giving to the rescue mission instead.
Try this one: In the Ferrari (yellow) bad part of town, duck in for a cold one and some ATM money, on the way in a person sitting on the sidewalk asks for help... "Sure wait a minute..." I say going in.... On the way back by, more or less to keep the person away from me, I empty my change plus a little in their hand, trying not to actually touch them.... "Thanks" they say..... "Any time , my brother!" "Hey no, I'm a GIRL!" Lifting her shirt to bring some physical proof of her position statement into the equation....... "OK, then ....thanks for THAT one!" I leave the neighborhood as quickly as safely possible......Have a nice day!
