As the weather warms up this spring, we’ll see more people on street corners and sidewalks asking for money. While I never begrudge anyone who feels compelled to give directly to a panhandler, I don’t believe it’s the most effective way to help.

The reality is that many people asking for money are not homeless. The last few people I have stopped and talked with have either been employed or on a fixed income just looking for extra cash. However, some panhandlers are homeless and trying to get by. For those who are homeless, especially those still struggling with addiction, money gained from panhandling often ends up being used for drugs or alcohol, rather than for essentials like food or shelter.

To provide an alternative, several years ago the Rescue Mission developed Help Cards. These cards, which can be shared instead of cash, provide our homeless friends with our address, phone number, and website, letting them know they can find food, shelter, clothing, and other necessities at the Mission. The cards also inform people about our New Life Program, which helps individuals leave the streets behind, and find faith, sobriety, employment, and housing.

Currently, our Help Cards are available for free. You can print them or order them directly from our website. We also have a physical supply ready for pickup here at the Mission.

An exciting update is that we are in the process of revamping the cards to make them smaller—similar in size to a credit card or business card—so they will fit more easily into wallets or cardholders. This change will make it even more convenient for people to carry the cards with them and share them when they encounter someone asking for money on the street.

By sharing Help Cards, you can play a role in directing someone to the Mission, where they can experience true life change through a relationship with Jesus. We pray that these cards will serve as a tool for transformation, helping those in need take the first step toward recovery and a new life.

Please look for our updated Help Cards in the coming months and prayerfully use them when you have the opportunity. Thank you for caring about our homeless friends and for supporting the Rescue Mission. We could not provide the life-saving services we do without your continued support!

God Bless,

Chris D. Croswhite

Executive Director