When I can, I buy them some juice or food but in most cases I say that I don't have anything to give them. The worst thing you can do to a homeless person is ignore them. It makes them feel invisible and unwanted - think of how you feel whenever you're ignored. Now imagine that rejection of comes after you ask for things as simple and essential as nourishment or shelter. If you don't have anything to offer, a simple "I'm sorry sir/miss" should do. It acknowledges their presence and their humanity and in doing that you've done more than most.
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When I can, I buy them some juice or food but in most cases I say that I don't have anything to give them. The worst thing you can do to a homeless person is ignore them. It makes them feel invisible and unwanted - think of how you feel whenever you're ignored. Now imagine that rejection of comes after you ask for things as simple and essential as nourishment or shelter. If you don't have anything to offer, a simple "I'm sorry sir/miss" should do. It acknowledges their presence and their humanity and in doing that you've done more than most.