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May 12, 2003

Buddy, Can You Spare a Dime?

No, I can't.

And the city of Denver is on my side.

Panhandling is a difficult issue faced by every major city, and Downtown Denver is no exception. People who panhandle may need help, but the experience of numerous social services agencies indicates that money given to individuals on the street often supports destructive habits, including alcohol and drug addiction.

The Downtown Denver Partnership encourages Downtown workers, visitors and residents to redirect their generosity to the institutions best suited to helping our city’s homeless and struggling citizens. By donating your money and volunteer time to organizations and service providers, you play an integral part in improving the lives of these individuals.

Begging has become a fairly commonplace event on the 16th Street Mall in downtown Denver, usually consisting of two to four unwashed young people who do nothing but sit along the sidewalk asking for change. Sometimes right in front of a store with a "Help Wanted" sign hanging in the window. Some folks are simply down and out - these kids are simply worthless.

The most they'll get from me is the view of the side of my head as I ignore them.

That said, we have older people, homeless people, and mentally ill people who do need our help - and the city is on the right track by advocating we donate our money and time to organizations that help them. See the PDF brochure in the link above for aid groups that could benefit from your time, talents, and financial support.