New Yorkers: Are you more likely to give to panhandlers who entertain you in some way, like sing in the train?

Question

Or are you just as likely to give to one who is just sitting there with a piece of cardboard telling you their sob story.

Or do you not give to any of them at all?

Answer 1

i give money to subway musicians & such, cuz at least they on they grind to get that buck. They just tryin to earn that honest day's pay doin what they can, and i got respect for that

i normally dont give to bums unless theyre really old or really young

Answer 2

Generally, I give to someone if asked but I would more give to one who is trying to entertain than one who is just sitting down taking up space.

When I went to South America on vacation and was short on my Airport Tax (all I had was plastic which they didn't take), a California Couple pity on me and gave me $26 to pay it so I could make it back to New York so I know the feeling when you are broke so I help now whenever I can.

Answer 3

Truthfully, I do give to people who entertain more often - but only if they are good! I feel that I am paying for the entertainment, as long as I am entertained.

I don't give to anyone with a guitar they can't play, or singing off key or anything.

As far as those who ask for money because they are in need, I rarely give to them, because I don't feel qualified to judge who is really needy. I do give to charities that help people who need food, like the food bank.

Answer 4

more likely to give it to those who entertain, at least they are working for it

Answer 5

I am more likely to give to someone who's working for it. But I probably wont give to anyone sitting with a sign...Most of the times I am not even sure if they want money for food or if they just want it to buy drugs or alcohol.

Answer 6

I work to hard for my money to be throwing it away.  NYC has plenty of social services for people in need.

Answer 7

I sometimes give money for those who entertain for a long period of time.  However, I never give money to those who are sitting there with a piece of cardboard.