Ban on Beggars

As one who has worked with the homeless for more than 26 years, I’m pleased to see that the Supreme Court let stand the ban on begging by panhandlers in New York City’s subway systems (Part A, Nov. 27).

My response may shock some individuals who have given to panhandlers when approached on Los Angeles streets. But the truth is that handouts can encourage the homeless to stay on the streets instead of looking for ways to rejoin society. With few exceptions, formerly homeless men and women tell me they used the majority of their panhandling proceeds to support drug or alcohol habits.

Handing over pocket change is a Band-Aid solution. Better alternatives for the kind-hearted include offering coupons for food and shelter or providing a list of charitable organizations the homeless can turn to for help. While those alternatives are preferable to handing over money, ultimately the only long-term solution will be rehabilitation--something a quick fix can never provide.

REV. MARK HOLSINGER, Director

Los Angeles Mission