Want to help the homeless? Here’s how to do it
Updated Dec 17, 2020;
When considering how to help the homeless, the vast majority of people approach it with good intentions.
Most are inclined to give one-time donations to shelters by way of food, clothing or personal hygiene items. Those are well-intended, but not always the best way to give or help. In fact, service providers say that donations such as food - particularly perishable food - often are more of a hindrance than a help to a well-established system that already functions effectively.
Area providers say those who are willing and able to help can do the most good with a financial contribution (see a list of agencies is provided at the end of this story). Social service agencies need money to pay for staff and supplies.