I am so with those that do not give monetary handouts or buy for the sake of the smile. It so interrupts a way of life that we intrude on. Be it a good or bad idea, I brought some balloons and sidewalk chalk and had a few precious moments of colour and being engaged. I can guarantee you will be more remembered than your 100$ Jamaican and you too will be charmed.
You really shouldn't give anything out at all. It all feeds the problem, whether it's money, candy, chalk, whatever. If you want to do something to help, as others have said, give to the churches or other community groups. Having them "remember you" is precisely what creates the problems that Marko described above.Originally Posted by Carrie
I believe completely opposite and see everyday what the handouts cause...read the linked article below.
Do give money to organisations that help the community...this can warm your heart and any amount of money can help...there is no minimum or maximum in the amounts needed.
Do not give handouts/gifts unless you know the family...not every parent/guardian is pleased with their children getting handouts.
We were all taught as children not to take candy, toys etc from a stranger (stranger danger)...I'm not sure why it would be different here. If I choose to give anything to a child...no different than I would anywhere...I ask the parent/guardian of the child for permission or have the child get permission to be allowed to take it from me.
JojoP (thanks Jojo) found a really, really good article that everyone should read...maybe it'll help with an understanding of why we shouldn't give handouts...
http://www.slate.com/articles/double...n_t_do_it.html
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