The Neighbors in Need Fund of The Community Foundation is pushing its message, “Give a Hand-Up, Not a Hand-Out,” to fight against panhandling within the Montgomery County.
The latest push to rid the county of panhandling came after the death of known panhandler Mary Josephine Fisher,52, who was hit by a car while she was in the median of Veirs Mill Road last May.
“We want to help. The question isn’t whether to help –it’s how. The simple truth is that giving cash to panhandlers doesn’t help,” according to a press release posted onto the Gaithersburg City website.
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The county met with homeless advocacy groups and social service providers such as The Community Foundation decided that in order to have a successful campaign the message of the program would have to be advertised through public service announcements, televisions ads and ads on public transportation where commuters can be aware.
“Our job is to promote the community initiative,” said Zahra Bokhari, administrative assistant of The Community Foundation. “We are working toward providing a safety net for families and individuals.”
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“I’ve been out here on and off due to my habits. I accept it, and have for the past couple of years. What worries me is where will I find a place to stay for the next night,” said Whitney Jackson, 54, homeless panhandler. “The other night a man saw me struggling to bring my stuff over to the bus station and he was kind enough to help me without saying any mean comments, which usually happens or people give me dirty looks.”
Jackson usually walks in between various intersections within Gaithersburg and as of late has decided to move upwards toward Germantown due to conflicts with fellow panhandlers.
“I haven’t heard of this program so I’m not sure if that means if it will work or not, the word needs to be put out there if an organization is going to help me or others in the same situation as me,” said Jackson, as she began her way to finding a spot for the night.
Jackson can be seen walking along Germantown Road with a sign reading she needs funds to feed her children because she lost her job, but in reality it’s just to help sustain her living.
“People tend to be more understanding if children are involved,” said Jackson. “I hate putting myself in this position, but I have to fend for myself, it’s not like there is space for me at the shelters, everything is overcrowded or people steal your stuff.”
To donate to the Neighbors in Need Fund text SHARE to the number 80077.
