Videos

Panhandling - It's not safe. It doesn't help.

Montgomery County government is joining together with homeless advocates and social service providers throughout the County to urge you to give a hand-up, not a hand-out.

The question isn'’t  whether to help. – It'’s  how.


Panhandle Press Event, Wheaton, MD, September 9, 2013

County Executive Ike Leggett and County Council member George Leventhal announce a new County initiative created to improve public safety and better serve those in need who currently solicit cash for personal use by panhandling along roadways.

Joining Leggett and Leventhal were representatives from public safety, homeless advocates, grass roots social service organizations and the faith community.

This new program encourages drivers to help those in need by contributing to County social services agencies rather than giving cash directly to panhandlers.


Comments by Monsignor John Enzler of Catholic Charities
Panhandle Press Event, Wheaton, MD, September 9, 2013

Read Statement PDF | 66 KB


Comments by Susan Kirk of Bethesda Cares
Panhandle Press Event, Wheaton, MD, September 9, 2013

Comments by Susan Sinclair-Smith of Montgomery County Coalition for the Homeless
Panhandle Press Event, Wheaton, MD, September 9, 2013