How can you tell the difference from a homeless person who really needs help because they have a starving baby at home or a family to care of from one who just wants drugs and alcohol?
by 
Anonymous
ANSWERS: 18
-
You don't. You just spare some change and know that God is watching you help that person. And if they take advantage of your kindness by using it for drugs then God will judge them accordingly when they die.
-
You don't, and does it make that much difference if they did, you would still be (although in a very small way) aiding them in getting something that they feel they really need - although they should of course seek help. Really the majority of them are in fact genuinely in need of money for food and the like... But it is unlikely that any would have a baby at home, the point is that they dont have a home. Do you have a "Big Issue" type thing wherever you live??
-
One type of homelessness is circumstantial, one type is a result of some form of addiction that is a priority in that persons life. Don't get me wrong the latter of the two is also tragic. The circumstantial homeless usually involves kids, and that makes it even more tragic.
-
Drugs are like food to a drug addict. Using is their solution, not their problem. Do you think that drug addicts woke up one day and decided to be that way? Do you know that it costs $1000 a day for rehab? Did you that an alcoholic can die during detox from alcohol? If you feel compassion, don't fight that feeling. Give based on their needs, not your own. Feeling sorry for these people is reason enough for you to give. Let God sort out the details.
-
Look at their arms and hands closely. They can't help it...they are victims of their own tradegies and society. Do you know it costs several thousand dollars to detox a person. The druggies are just living. The real homeless victims are showing up as a result of home foreclosures and they ususally have their kids holding up the signs asking for food money. Saw many of those in my recent trips in LA, and TX. Sad :(
-
If you offer them baby formula or baby food (or baby whatever) and they insist on cash that's a pretty good sign they are not what they seem.
-
Look in their eyes.
-
You can't tell both are desperate.
-
I would say that a homeless person with a starving baby would try to find a shelter to provide them with food for the baby. I always offer them food instead of money and most turn it down...so I don't give them any money.
-
Usually the addict is on the street corner begging for money.
-
It doesn't matter to me why they are homeless or what their need is..For the drug addicts, those drugs become a real need..Not like they want to live on the streets, and not like they can afford rehab..even the cheapest of facilities..detoxing without help is a real threat to their lives..so it ends up them actually needing those drugs or that alcohol to survive, much like the baby that needs food..it's not for me to judge, I give equally to those that need. :)
-
It's very difficult. Drug addicts are very manipulative and deceiving(believe me, I know after having lived with one for 2 years). If they are on the street and ask for money, do not give them any. Instead, if they do not know what to do or where to go, and you know where to direct them, then do that. Buy them a sandwich and something to drink if they are hungry, but do not give them money.
-
Look in their eyes.
-
I don't think it's wise to give homeless people money. It's always best to try to avoid them and give to the food bank or homeless shelter instead so that the people who truly just want help and not drug money can be helped out.
-
Does it matter
-
You cannot. Bear in mind that, right now, I am too poor to do these things. I am too busy surviving, keeping Keysha afloat (lost her job 2 years ago in the State with the worst economy of the Union... there are NO jobs), and might have to help support her sister who is in danger of being laid off as well. I never give money. I do things like take them into a grocery store and buy them essentials. I also used to carry blankets, sleeping bags, warm winter coats, and the like I picked up in thrift stores for next to nothing in the trunk of my car to give out to them. I have had some turn down the trip to the grocery store. I know that they do not care about food... they just want booze or drugs. I gave out the warm things regardless. I shrug and walk off. I know that someone else is going to want my help.
-
There maybe a few ways. But the best thing to do is not to give the person money. But to offer to pay for their meal or a place for them to stay in out of the cold. Just make sure that the person & child is getting the true needs meet. By paying the cost yourself & not just handing the money to them to do so. Be Wise..&....Good Luck...................+5 for your question.............M.C.S.
-
Usually, the people/family/person who has the kid, will be contacting agencies for help. They won't waste time begging as it's a hit and miss thing. The druggies don't care, they just want booze...if it takes a day for collecting money so be it. Hey, saw a fight between two beggars for a place known for beggars. Man they went at it for 5 min and they both got hauled off. Next thing you know, a third guy took the spot and smiled and waved at everyone. Smart dude :)
- M.C.S. - Dave RELATED QUESTIONS
Copyright 2023, Wired Ivy, LLC