Many of us wonder if giving money to people experiencing homelessness is the right thing to do. While cash can be a lifeline for people sleeping rough, sometimes a person may also need a warm drink, something to eat or a new pair of socks. It all depends on that person’s situation. Often the best thing you can do to help someone facing homelessness is to ask them what they need.
While giving money can’t provide a solution to rough sleeping and it won’t address the root causes of homelessness, it can help to provide immediate relief. Your spare change could become something to eat, clean clothes, shelter, a mobile phone top up or a bus ticket to an important appointment. Giving money to someone facing homelessness offers a vital, short-term lifeline that can help to make that person’s day a little easier.
Gaz shares how important money becomes when you’re facing homelessness: “I visited the soup kitchen because I didn’t have any money and became homeless. As soon as you run out of money, that’s it; that’s how much your life can change in one day.”
Many people experiencing homelessness can feel isolated and ignored by society. By giving money you’re also offering your compassion and showing that you empathise with their situation. A simple “take care” or a short conversation could be the only real human connection that person has had all day and it could make a big difference to how they’re feeling.
Alongside giving money to people experiencing homelessness, you could also offer to buy something for them or donate items directly. If you choose to do this, it’s always a good idea to speak to the person first. Find out what they need or ask what they would like, as everyone’s situation and needs are different.
If you can’t speak to the person first, there are some common items that are always needed and appreciated. Some of the things you can give people experiencing homelessness, other than money, include:
If you’d like to do more to help, why not try building a care package that includes a selection of these items for someone sleeping rough? It could make a real, tangible difference to their life. If you don’t feel comfortable giving a care package to someone facing homelessness directly, you can buy a virtual care package through Crisis. You can also donate to Crisis online and we’ll make sure that your money is spent on ending homelessness for all.
Giving money to people experiencing homelessness is your choice. If you are fortunate enough to have money to give, and are willing and comfortable donating it to someone facing homelessness, then know that you’re making a positive step towards offering your support to someone in need.
However, it’s important to keep in mind that money is not always the most valuable thing for that person. We all have our own individual needs and preferences, which should always be respected. Before giving someone money, act compassionately and ask what would help them most. Maybe they’d benefit from a hot drink, a snack or a top-up for their mobile phone.
If you can’t give anything, that’s ok too. For people facing homelessness, a friendly face and a person to talk to can also be incredibly valuable. Human connection is so important for all of us. Taking a moment to stop and speak to someone who is sleeping rough, or to offer them a smile, can make a real difference and help them feel less alone.
If someone experiencing homelessness asks you for money, the best way to respond is with a smile and a kind word. This applies whether you’re able to give them something or not. People who are sleeping rough are often ignored by passers by and a simple acknowledgement goes a long way.
If you can’t offer money, a polite “I’m sorry, I can’t help today” is much better than choosing to ignore them. If you have the time, you could offer to buy something for them instead or even just stop for a chat.
Read more on How to Help People Experiencing Homelessness for more information.
Everyone deserves to have a home. Will you stand with us and help us end homelessness for good? There are so many ways you can help,
