It's a bigger issue than any one post can handle.

Every word you said was correct and I have no doubt that a large portion of the money given to beggars is wasted. As a rule I do not and will not give money to beggar. However, being generous is still imperative!

I happily give to the Salvation Army here in Abbotsford. It is an organization which offers meals, medical help, and a place to sleep for those who (a) are homeless and have nothing but also (b) agree to not use drugs and try to better themselves. Anyone caught using drugs of fighting is out of the shelter. I know people working in the shelter and I know the nurse in charge of arranging the medical help. Money there is well spent.

The same thing goes for my local church. They regularly make food baskets and give money t those who have an immediate need. Again, they do not give to beggars but for those with an identified need (rent, food, medical supplies and so forth) we try hard to help.

Even when I was trying to help an Afghani refugee (Muslim) and we went to the local government aid workers as they were struggling....the government aid workers reached out to the local churches for food and assistance for them. Some Muslim wouldn't take generosity from Christian churches (or Sikh ones which are also represented in our city). However, the generosity of the churches were available to all.

How to get aid to those who truly need it has been a challenge to all who wish to help. It is really important to help though. As for myself, when I was younger I was one of those in need of help.

I would never have gotten my first bicycle if not for the generosity of strangers.

There were times we would not have food on the table if not for the generosity of strangers.

There were times I would not have had a place to sleep if not for the generosity of strangers.

I know the power of helping others. I know the power of paying it forward. I know the pitfalls of finding the right person to donate to.

I will not fall prey to pity for beggars and panhandlers. However, I hope to pray for those who don't have enough and will actively donate money on causes that will help.

If my money goes to those who are thieves or scammers? Well, I believe God settles the scales in the end. They will get their due someday :)

Thanks for the post.