My father recently reached for a dollar to give to a bum, and the bum snatched the wallet out of his hands and ran. Didn't even have the good manners to ditch the wallet somewhere in the neighborhood where it could be returned.

The police here say not to give money to panhandlers, because they just buy liquor with it and cause problems for the residents and businesses where they are. I figure the police should know.

If you want to help, give to a reputable organization.