Safe to give homeless people money?

I have been approached by various homeless folks during my travels... Depending on the location and situation, I have given money to those who have asked. However, when I feel the spirit of apprehension because there are more then 1! I have declined to give out money... When traveling I have noticed that homeless people literally come out suddenly from no where, usually from wooded areas located near gas stations... and I always lock my car doors because of the uneasy feeling I get when I see them approaching with a beer bottle in hand... I have actually, bought them food instead of being an enabler of their alcoholic condition... I don’t mine helping someone who appears to be hungry…

@advisor2008 - "When traveling I have noticed that homeless people literally come out suddenly from no where, usually from wooded areas located near gas stations." Oh my god, where do you travel to?!?! Sounds like something out of a scary horror movie.

Thanks for the advice though, I'm glad my instincts are right. Also a good idea to buy them food instead of giving them money, I would hate to think the money I put down is being used for drugs or worse.

I must say, last time I was in SF, I gave a homeless person $20. It was an accident, I meant to give them $1, but boy did that make their day! Now there is always the chance they went and purchased drugs, you never know, but it is crazy when we can spend billions on wars and bailouts that we cant solve this problem.

I'd say it's safe to give some money - probably best to do it when other people are around. You will feel good too knowing you have helped someone in need.

Wonder if our new President will have a plan? This is 2008 after all.

I have to say I get discouraged when I offer homeless people food or clothing and they reject it as they only want cash to spend on alcohol and drugs. I live in an inner city area close to where many charity organisations deliver services to the homeless and when I tell them about where the free food is etc they abuse me for not giving them money. As terrible as their circumstances appear to be I don't think giving them money helps very much.

Hi enerygeek, forgive my ignorance, but what is "Panhandling"?

I do agree with giving to a reputable organization over an individual. It makes sure the money is used wisely, and as some people have mentioned, not spent on drugs.

Thanks for posting energygeek!

AJ