Reasons I know the panhandlers at onramps are scams
Ok, not ALWAYS a scam. But frequently enough that I have to really wonder and no longer give money out.
1.) The same guy working the same spot who two months ago had a sign that said “from out of town, need bus fare”
2.) A middle aged, heavy set woman and her two kids getting into a brand new Mercedes Benz
3.) The panhandler who exchanged a small white package for a wad of bills with a guy in a Lexus
4.) The “homeless veteran” sporting the rolex watch
5.) The guy who flung the McDonald’s gift certificates back
6.) The guy who went from really happy and friendly to sad and slouching in the distance from Starbucks to his “corner.”
7.) The kid who said “Fuck you” to the person in front of me, myself, and lady behind as we drove by.
8.) The lady with the iPhone texting while at the corner.
Personally, seeing these guys every single day gets old. I don’t know who really needs help or not any more. Apparently I’m not the only one. It’s harder because some of them DO need help.