Joining other cities like Denver, Baltimore and Chattanooga in their request to reduce the number of panhandlers on the street, San Francisco recently began implementing what they call “homeless meters.”  Rather than throw your spare change in a cup or an outstretched hand, the city is asking you to insert that money into one of many designated meters around the city.  Designed to stop the chain of panhandling by taking away the source and  to educate the public about better ways to help the homeless population, the money in the meters will then be given to several nonprofit organizations in the city.  

While many cities have collected only a minimal amount of money when looking at the overall budgets spent on homeless-related services and programs, what has changed, however, is that many cities have cited a decrease in the number of panhandlers on the street—one of the main goals of the programs.   In fact, Denver’s Department of Human Services claim that they have seen a 92% reduction in panhandling in the downtown district since the meters were installed.  Advocates believe these programs can really make a difference in the way homeless people are served in their communities.

Slogans on meters include “Be a part of change.  Don’t give change“ and “Give your change to make a change for homeless people.”  Drop a quarter in a homeless meter in Baltimore, and see the needle move from “despair” to “hope.”  It appears as though a significant emphasis is being placed on educating people about more thoughtful giving.  

We hope organizers put the money where the slogan is. 

If the goal is to make a real change and educate the community about giving, the money has to go to effective and accountable organizations.  Otherwise, the true value of such programs is wasted.

We’re curious to hear your thoughts.  Will homeless meters and other similar programs really “change”  the way people think about charity?