What's This?
Promote Real Change, Not Spare Change
It's OK to say NO! Walk with confidence. The streets of Raleigh belong to everyone. What should you do if asked for money? Politely say no and walk away. If a panhandler becomes aggressive, contact a Safety Ambassador at 919.368.7962 or call the Raleigh Police at 911.
CONSIDER THIS...
• Your dollars may go to support and enable destructive habits and dependencies.
• For some, panhandling is a profitable business, not an immediate need. Assistance is available through our local service agencies. Many organizations provide essential services such as food, shelter, clothing, healthcare, and employment counseling.
• Giving to panhandlers is not the best way to promote change. Give your change to local agencies that can make a real difference.
Instead, give your dollars to the Raleigh Rescue Mission, the Salvation Army, the Women's Center of Wake County, Urban Ministries, the Healing Place or charity of your choice. Help Raleigh continue providing food, shelter, rehabilitation and other assistance to those in need.
If you would like to print a "Promote Real Change, Not Spare Change" poster to hang in your window, click here. The poster was created in response to requests from downtown businesses to educate the public on discouraging donations to individuals, but encouraging donations to our human service agencies.
A Wake County Guide to Human Services is also available. This guide provides access to contact information for service agencies such as emergency shelters, legal assistance, employment assistance, meals, veteran assistance, food, clothing and more. To download the Wake County Guide to Human Services, click here.
