Should you give money to someone on the street?

This week we want to take some time to address a question that has been asked so many times: “Should I give money to someone on the street?” Here at City Relief, we believe that any support you are able to provide people experiencing homelessness can make an impact. Here are some options, including offering money, that can add value to people in need. 

Give Money: People living on the street often have so many needs beyond our understanding. If you have the means to give money to someone on the street and feel led to do so, then do so without judgment or expectation. It’s true that sometimes giving cash can feel transactional instead of relational, so try to always learn the name of the person you are supporting, and if you’re not comfortable giving money away, feel free to consider some of the options below as well.

Give Food: Giving food can be as easy as grabbing a bagel at the local coffee cart or keeping gift cards with you to nearby places like coffee shops or fast food restaurants. A gift card also gives unhoused people a place to sit indoors and access to a restroom. We always recommend asking first if the person would like you to buy them food or would like the gift card. Assuming you know what someone in the street needs or wants can leave both you and the individual you’re trying to help frustrated.  

Have Conversation: One of the greatest losses to those experiencing homelessness is their community. Simply engaging someone in conversation and making eye contact can add tremendous value. Please remember though, that our friends on the street do not have doors. So, do not be offended if they do not want to speak and be respectful to not disturb them if they are sleeping. Normal rules of social interaction apply! 

Give a Street Sheet: You can download one of our Street Sheets HERE and tuck it into your wallet. Sometimes folks experiencing homelessness don’t know what their options are to access emergency supplies or a place to sleep indoors. When you don’t have time or money, this is a great way to point someone to City Relief’s resources. 

We want to encourage you today that your help matters! Even if someone declines what you have to offer, you have given someone the dignity of choice and acknowledged their humanity.