I feel bad too. The person with that cardboard is truly desperate. Maybe your partner thinks that the person is just lazy. I used to think that way too. Well, maybe he would change his mind sooner or later.

I feel badly as well. For a lot of people that is a sign of sheer desperation. A lot of people can't hold a job because they are mentally ill or whatever...I try not to judge them too harshly.

living in philly, I have seen these types on the roosevelt blvd, and seen their 'friends' pick them up at the end of the day in 4 or 5 series benz. I feel bad but there are resources for ppl in bad situations. If I see a will work for food sign, I tell them to hop in the bed of my truck I have work for them, to date I have not had any takers. If your the type that gets taken in by theses ppl I believe that Karma will deal with them if you do help them out of kindness. or if you truly feel bad take the change you would give them and donate it to a shelter every 3 mts. For ppl who really want help can get back on their feet through a shelter, and junkies avoid them, they make you get up at 7am and look for work to keep your bed. your partner should not be rude but ask them there situation, call them on it, for example I get asked for money (for something to eat) outside a store all the time, I tell the person to come inside I'll buy you what ever you want. I've done this over 100x's still no takers. My youngest daughter donates to the local women and childrens shelter (blankets, toothpaste, etc) and at there functions you can see ppl who had nothing, that are functioning members of society, all they needed was a little help. A shelter will help those who truly want it, giving money on the side of the road only makes your wallet lighter