How to Prepare Bags of Food to Give to People Begging by Freeways

Extend a helping hand to someone in need.

When you drive past a panhandler standing at the edge of the road holding a sign, you have several options. You can continue with your own harried life, or you can pause long enough to extend a helping hand to another person. Because giving money to a panhandler may not be the wisest option, instead you might prepare bags of food to give to people begging by freeways.

Things You'll Need

• Food items
• Plastic shopping bag

Instructions

1. Select food items with a wide range of appeal. For example, single-serving casseroles, soups and ready-made convenience foods will appeal to many people. Avoid items in cans because they may be difficult to open. Instead, choose items in packaging that does not require a can opener.

2. Add a variety of different foods to the bags. Place entree items, a bag of apples, chips, pretzels, cold beverages (in cans or plastic bottles) and dessert items. Select a few treats that you think the recipient might enjoy, such as a package of cupcakes from the bakery or a bag of cookies.

3. Fill the bags with as many different items as you can afford or wish to give.

4. Place the bags in your car, and offer the bags to people you see panhandling. Roll down your window and offer a bag of food when you stop at a stop light. If the panhandler refuses the food, roll your window back up and offer it to someone else.

Tips & Warnings

• You can fill bags of food at a grocery store specifically for panhandlers you see on the freeway. If you regularly drive past panhandlers and you want to help, you can also fill bags with nonperishable food and keep them in your car so you can give them to panhandlers when you see them.

• Stay aware of your surroundings when you choose to help panhandlers. Do not place yourself in a situation where you may become isolated while trying to give someone food.

References

• "The Times Herald": Ethics Expert -- Give Panhandlers Food