City planning campaign to combat panhandling

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City councillors are encouraging residents to give to local charities not panhandlers.

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Councillors are recommending a $25,000 education campaign to combat a problem they say is dangerous and doesn’t produce the desired effect. The recommendation will come before council for approval on Jan. 30.

“The problem with people begging on the side of the road is that you don’t know if they’re truly homeless or if they’re begging to support a drug habit or an alcohol problem,” Coun. Greg Martin said during a committee meeting this week. “(But) if people give to the food bank, the Salvation Army, the money will be going to people who are truly homeless who need help instead of someone who is trying to support a bad habit.

“I hope we can encourage people to not give to people on the side of the road, who are endangering themselves by being close to traffic and endangering other cars possibly causing a collision.”

Martin said those who give to charities that assist those in need can be assured the funds are going where needed.

The education campaign will have a three-pronged approach that includes encouraging residents to donate or volunteer for community organizations that provide food, clothing and other basic needs to vulnerable populations.

As well, the effort will seek to make business owners aware of prohibited panhandling activities and who to call if such activity takes place.

The campaign will also engage with those panhandling to provide information about restricted activities and supportive resources.

It has been prompted by numerous reports of people approaching residents and motorists for money including those drivers coming off Highway 403 at the Wayne Gretzky Parkway overpass.

“There are very good professional panhandlers that show up in our city and they do a good job of getting money, getting what they need and getting out,” Coun. Brian Van Tilborg said. “There are others, likely local, who try to get in on the gig.

“The thing is they may not be as experienced and there may be some erratic behaviour both from drivers and those asking for money. “

Van Tilborg said he’s worried about safety and the median at the Wayne Gretzky Parkway and Colborne Street is of particular concern. Although nothing has happened, Van Tilborg said he’s seen some near misses.

Mayor Kevin Davis said education is critical to addressing the problems because fines don’t work. Panhandlers don’t have any assets, some don’t have a driver’s licence and they can’t be sent to jail.

“I understand why people donate,” Davis said. “It makes you feel good because you feel like you’re helping someone.

“But there is anecdotal evidence that this might be a bit organized, that some are working shifts.”

Prior to commenting, Davis asked city bylaw enforcement staff if the people panhandling are the same as those encountered by city staff when visiting local encampments.

Davis was told that not one of the panhandlers had been seen in the more than 160 encampments visited by city staff last year.

Davis said there is no doubt that some of the money given to those standing on the side of the road is being used to purchase drugs.

“When you’re donating to a panhandler, what you’re really doing is fuelling the drug trade,” Davis said. “There are better ways to help out and make meaningful contribution to the community.”

Vball@postmedia.com

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