Homeless people

[stoofur]

Hello. Last night I was in town and somebody came up to my friend and I and said he was homeless and asked for money. My friend said no. I gave him a fiver. The guy was really pleased and thanked me.

After my friend and I were talking. He said I should not have given him the money as he would only spend it on drugs. He then asked why are people homeless?

I know this may sound like a dumb question and he and I have pretty good sheltered lives and I could not answer.

I always assumed that there is help available from the Government if you are made homeless. I know I am being naive but is there not help?

Also should I have given him money? I hope I never get into the homeless persons position and I also hope if I did. Somebody would offer me help if I needed it.

[stoofur]

Thanks everyone for your replies. Some really interesting opinions here. I would not usually give as much as a fiver but the guy was really polite and I had it in my pocket. Usually it would be coins if anything.