This is becoming more common in my town. I just either feel like an ass saying I dont have cash, or lying, but I also can’t be giving out 20’s to everyone who asks.
I feel bad for most of them but at the same time I get anxiety walking down the sidewalk and seeing someone up ahead that I know is going to ask me for money. Its not like you can say “oh no, I donate to services that help the needy” because that person isn’t necessarily being helped by that. And ignoring completely feels so mean, plus I tried that one time and the person was screaming at me as i walked away that I ignored them.
I also dont want my city to round them up and send them to prison camps, something they are planning and that I know a lot of people would vote for just to “get rid of them” but im not supporting that at all.
Its tough.
If you don’t have the means to help with what they’re asking for, a quick “Sorry, can’t help today” and going about your business is they way to go. It’s not a full on engagement, but it is an acknowledgement.
Back when I was a smoker, if I didn’t have means to help with cash but had some smokes to spare and a little time I’d say “No, but if you smoke I can share one with you” and, if they were into it, stop and chat for a cigarette break’s length of time. Lots of factors to consider here before doing that, but for the most part people enjoyed the acknowledgement for a few minutes. YMMV.