About Beggars

Beggars request food, money, clothing and other items from passersby. Beggars have many reasons for asking for assistance and can be found in many locations worldwide. The presence of beggars can be indicative of larger socio-political issues in a given region, culture or time.

Types

Types of beggars include individuals displaced from their homes, people with health problems, mentally affected individuals, drug addicts and abuse victims. While some beggars have other options such as shelters, others have no choice but to beg (this is largely dependent on location and outreach). Even people with considerable amounts of money have been known to ask others for assistance.

Time Frame

Beggars spend various amounts of time begging for various items and money. Some beggars choose a regular location and sit there throughout the workday, hoping to generate charity from commuters and tourists. Other beggars choose to spend part of their day begging while using the remainder of their time to shower at a local shelter and locate potential sources of employment.

Geography

Seen throughout time and across various regions, beggars even appeared in the Bible. Under the Law of Moses, society was instructed to assist beggars who needed help. In many cities worldwide, beggars are prevalent, particularly on the outskirts of tourist areas and transportation centers. They often find the most success in these places.

Identification

People of different age, gender, race and beliefs can be beggars. This is not a phenomenon limited to one type of person, although stereotypes and misconceptions exist. Beggars ask those passing by for money and usually remain stationary while doing so. Many beggars have a change cup into which donors are asked to place coins.

Effects

Beggars tend to present a negative image of a particular location. The presence of beggars is perceived to be indicative of larger social ills or issues and can cause others to avoid beggar-inhabited areas.

Warning

In some places, it is not always safe or advisable to offer a beggar money. Those suffering from drug or alcohol addiction may use money toward that addiction. Those wishing to help beggars should point them in the direction of the nearest shelter or offer them some food or warm clothing. There are also various local volunteer opportunities to assist in feeding beggars.

Resources

• Begging
• Hunger and Homelessness