In Eugene we have our own assortment of panhandlers. Many are young people - one I saw across the street from a Starbucks. He was holding his sign in one hand and a Starbucks cup in the other hand. I stopped going to the particular store because the "homeless" use the restroom as their half way stop.
But 'tis the season to be compassionate and I provide a list of suggested gifts to hand to your favorite panhandler. Note: It isn't necessary to gift wrap them!
Erasable Marker Board - great for changing that sympathetic message. For example, near a military holiday they can write how they are a disabled Vet. Or Christmas time they can pick a number for how many kids they have to provide gifts for. Or the favorite: Need money to leave town.
Stuffed dog - Preferably as realistic as possible, a great tool for generating more income when laid nearby.
Scope - Mint flavor or original, when approaching a vehicle to take the money at least they can smell nice as they give their God Bless You.
Multi-color markers - if you don't get the erasable board consider multicolor markers. Everyone likes a cheery person, so why not a sign that looks cheery too!
A Book - consider a book like Toasts: Over 1,500 Of the Best Toasts, Sentiments, Blessings, and Graces and you could help establish a new breed of snappy panhandlers!
Trash Can - If you're tired of that trashing looking corner give the gift that tells them you care about them and their space. Now only if you could get them to empty it when full.
Stroller - Pick up a baby stroller at your local thrift and give a competitive edge to your favorite panhandler! Works great especially with women drivers.
Lighter - A nifty Zippo lighter to help light their cigarettes sure beats asking for matches!
Chocolate Espresso Beans - a quick pick-me-up for those times they need to offset the alcohol and drugs in their system.
You could always give them cash - the greatest incentive that will keep them coming back for more!
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