Real Change not Spare Change

The citizens of Columbia are compassionate people and many give their spare change to panhandlers thinking it will help someone in need. Unfortunately, much of the money given to panhandlers is used for cigarettes, alcohol and drugs. A regular supply of spare change will encourage this lifestyle and prevent someone from getting the help they need.

The Columbia Special Business District and the Columbia Area United Way are asking the community to think in terms of real change, not spare change.

If you want to help, please donate your money to organizations such as our local United Way and other agencies dedicated to providing food, housing and emergency services to those in need. Your spare change can bring about significant change--job training, drug and alcohol rehabilitation, health care, food and housing.

Get the Facts

Knowing all the facts about panhandling and the law will help you make a real change for Columbia.

  1. Many people who panhandle suffer from drug and alcohol addictions, and giving spare change often sustains those addictions.
  2. Individuals who panhandle are not always homeless.
  3. When asked for spare change, it´s OK to politely say "no" or "sorry."
  4. Aggressive panhandling, such as blocking doors or sidewalks, touching, pestering, repeated requests or the use of threatening gestures or language, is illegal.
  5. It is not illegal for people to simply gather in public areas such as sidewalks, benches or parks.
  6. If you feel endangered, seek out a police officer or call the Columbia Police at 442-6131. Officer Cathy Dodd is available by pager during the day. Just call 499-8457.