Have you ever been approached by a stranger who told you they needed money for an emergency? What would you do?
Last week I got an email from the city's police department letting me know about several recent cases of panhandling in the area. Although each incident varied somewhat in the details, the basic story was always the same--a city resident is in a retail parking lot when a young person approaches him/her crying and states that they need money for an emergency, such as an ill child or needing gas to drive home.
The email stated that if you were approached there's an easy way to deal with the situation without giving the person money. All you have to do is say something like, "I can't help you, but I'll call the police for you." If it's a legitimate emergency they'll welcome police assistance and stick around, but if it's a scam they'll will argue that police are not needed and leave.
Yep, calling the police weeds them out FAST! I've had that scam attempted on me soooo many times... they usually RUN away.
ReplyDeleteThank you for this post. At those times when you're approached, you often don't think of what is the best thing to say. I'll try to remember this should it ever happen again.
ReplyDeleteI never knew what to say either.
DeleteI'll be better able to handle this situation thanks to your warning! It's awful how bad things are getting.
ReplyDeleteYou're welcome; the simple solution was new to me, too.
Deletewhat a great idea!
ReplyDeleteIt's so sad what this world is coming to, but for sure it's an excellent idea to call the police. I've had people approach me for food, those who I've offered to buy a meal for and genuinely are hungry appreciate it immensely, those who are only looking for cash to support their habits often get irritated and leave.
ReplyDeleteI support several charities that help people who are having a hard time, but sadly, I've never actually bought someone a meal.
DeleteThat is an excellent suggestion. I am not quick on my feet when it comes to stuff like that. I'm not a sucker either - just rude. I'd rather say the above - not so rude. ;-)
ReplyDelete