GROUPS PUSH TO END CASH HANDOUTS TO HOMELESS IN NORTHWEST HOUSTON

Chron.com | By Mayra Cruz | September 26, 2017

If you see a panhandler on the street asking for cash, don’t give them money, say community organizations that are working to reduce homelessness.

Homeless advocate organizations and law enforcement officers said it is better to invest in organizations that have been teaming up to guide homeless people to resources with the ultimate goal of taking them off the streets at a forum hosted by Northwoods Presbyterian Church.

In northwest Houston’s street corners, many panhandlers can earn up to $40 a hour which doesn’t give them an incentive to seek help, said Kristyn Stillwell, executive director of H.O.P.E. Haven. After working with the homeless in mental hospitals, rehab and detox centers, Stillwell said many of them spend the money on alcohol, cigarettes and drugs instead of food.