Posted inStreetalk
Asked at Ceol Irish Pub, 410 California Ave., Reno
Jeff Brooke
Chef
Occasionally; only when I feel that it’s legit. If I see a guy with a missing leg, I’ll give something. But if I see someone wearing expensive trainers, then I won’t. When I look at them, I can usually tell if they’re really hurting or not. The most creative sign that I’ve seen someone holding was outside of a Starbucks that said, “Minimum donation of $2.” I also saw someone with just a blank piece of cardboard once.
Lucas Limón
Mixologist
I sometimes will, but not too frequently. I used to give more until I started paying more attention to my wallet. I realized that it’s not the best way to be a philanthropist. The most creative sign that I’ve ever seen said, “I need money for hookers and Cheez Whiz.”
Jim Lyons
Retired insurance broker
Mostly, no. There are jobs out there, and everywhere you go, there is a sign that says, “Help wanted.” I came from a family that worked hard and never took a handout. I really don’t like people using a dog as a prop for money. I feel for the animals. There are lots of scams out there, and I don’t want to be duped into giving out my money. I saw a sign once that said, “Not going to lie; I want money for beer.”
Mary Lyons
Retired product fulfillment worker
It’s hit or miss. I can gauge if they really need help and are not someone who wants money for liquor or cigarettes. I’ve seen people out there who dress better than I do. Sometimes I offer food and not money, and sometimes the food is declined. I saw someone in the middle of winter with a sign that said, “Don’t care about food, just need dry socks,” so I went and bought them a pack of new socks.
Natasia Ford
Cashier
I do sometimes, depending on where it is—like, if it’s a safe spot or not. I don’t want to encourage them to be in an unsafe spot like a busy on- or off-ramp, or a median. I carry water and jerky to give out. Times are hard. The best sign that I ever saw said, “I’m not asking for anything. I just want to see a smile.”
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