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Social Issues

Appropriate To Give Money To Homeless People?

Answered by Stephanie Adams, MA, LPC

Question

Should I give money to homeless people on the street? I often do but then I wonder if I am just enabling their addictions.

Since you can't know for sure whether you are fueling an addiction or if the person would wisely use the money, I have heard (and agree) that the best way to deal with it is to keep on hand gift cards to supply them with necessary resources. Giving them a gift card to a major chain store or grocery store that would enable them to buy toiletries, food, clothing and more is a way of helping them with lesser risk of fueling addiction. You might also have some gift cards to fast-food places, preferably some with healthy menu choices.

Another way to help is to volunteer at the Salvation Army or a homeless shelter, providing a hot meal and a listening ear. 

Either way, giving to others is also a great way to make your life more full and rich. You should be commended for your desire to do so.

About the Expert

Stephanie Adams

MA, LPC

College Station, United States of America

Specialties

Life Coaching, Mood Disorders, Trauma and PTSD, Other, Anxiety or Fears, Relationship Issues, Women, Loss or Grief, Thinking Disorders, Depression, Finding Your Purpose in Life

License

my_license #65450