Encountering the Homeless
1. How can I tell if an individual is homeless?
Some of the more obvious characteristics that may indicate homelessness include:
- Worn clothing
- Appearance of depression, confusion or helplessness
- Excessive bags or clothing
- Loitering
- Panhandling (asking for money)
- Unusual behaviors
- Talking to one’s self or an imaginary individual
- Strange body movements
- Inappropriate emotions
- Inappropriate dress for the season (especially warm clothes in the summer)
- Public intoxication
This is not all-inclusive. The presence of one or more of these characteristics does not prove that an individual is homeless.
2. How do I approach a homeless person?
- Talk to the individual just like you would talk to anyone else.
- Start with a simple lead question such as, "How are you doing?"
If the individual replies appropriately, there are several other questions:
- "Do you have a place to stay?"
- "Have you eaten recently?"
- "Do you have clothing to keep you warm/cool?"
- "Are you new to the area?"
3. Approach the individual with caution.
First assess the situation and consider some safety factors. Some suggested guidelines for approaching the individual include:
- Protect yourself. If the person appears to be a threat to themselves or others, do not approach. Call 911.
- If the person is acting strangely, allow them to be as they are. Don’t ask too many questions; this may cause the person to withdraw.
- If the person says that they do not need help, don’t persist.
4. Should I give money to the person?
No. If a homeless person experiences panhandling success, it will only create more panhandling. Rarely does money given directly to a homeless person go toward food, housing support or bus fares. Most homeless are in need of money to feed their addictions. Your dollars will usually buy alcohol or drugs. Nearly all homeless have access to free meal programs at various churches and organizations.
There are many resources available in the St. Louis area to assist homeless individuals, including housing, employment and mental health services. These organizations need your support and will be better stewards of your dollars in truly helping homeless people get OFF the street.
- It is better to direct the person to these community services rather than giving them money.
- It’s more beneficial to connect the person with long-term services and support programs.
- If food is what they say they need money for, you can give the person a fast food gift certificate.
- If you are compelled to help the homeless, give your support to agencies that can provide long-term solutions, not short term fixes.
