Often times people say to me “you must be brave,” or ask “do you have no fear?” That’s been the case lately with the city’s eyes turning to the issue of panhandling.

People request donations in a supplicant matter all the time — charities, political parties, even children with their hearts set on something they really want.

I assume most of us don’t get upset when asked for help, because I believe most of us truly want to make a positive difference in someone’s life.

But sometimes problems arise in the way we are asked.

If panhandling is aggressive or in your face, it can be intimidating, frustrating, angering and even dangerous. Bad behaviour is unacceptable — no matter the time or circumstance. If we give to aggressive people, it will only get worse.

But not nearly all panhandlers are aggressive, and at the end of the day, all of them are still human beings that deserve to be treated with respect and dignity.

There are many reasons why someone resorts to panhandling. Few panhandlers are employable and often face barriers unseen to most. Some are permanently on social assistance and try to supplement their income. Others struggle with addictions and use the money to feed a drug and alcohol habit.

Unfortunately, panhandling is just the symptom of much deeper problems — be they major or minor.

We all want safe streets, but stopping panhandlers must happen through supports for these people. Truth is, even if they can’t panhandle anymore, these individuals might shoplift, break in or do worse things to get their sustenance.

So the question that remains is if people should give to panhandlers, even if they are friendly and approachable.

I wish I had a good answer to this one — I’ve given to some, and not to others.

Sometimes people are visibly in pain, either momentary or permanent from life giving them a tough go. Who am I to decide that for that moment, self-medicating with alcohol is a bad thing for them? Sure, they could buy drugs and fatally overdose. Sure, they could go pick a bridge and jump off of it — I’ve known too many who’ve done just that.

But ultimately, the act of reaching out and helping someone is a sign of love that can spark hope.

While you should never give to aggressive panhandlers, there are other ways to help. Maybe give them coffee or food instead. Perhaps you can get to know them and find out what brought them to panhandle.

A few years ago I was in Los Angeles and saw a homeless man who seemed to have extreme mental health issues. He paced back and forth on one spot, cussing at invisible people around him. A car drove up beside him and the driver handed him a couple of sandwiches. I sensed that the act of kindness came out of a friendship between the two.

I’m not suggesting we should give or not give to panhandlers, but I am suggesting that we should treat others the way we would like to be treated — with dignity and respect.

When to give help or exercise tough love can always be debated.

- Floyd Perras is the executive director of Siloam Mission

SUN Article