Giving $5 to a Stranger

Someone approached me this evening and begged me for help. This man said that he was far away from home and needed some gas money to get him back to his home that was 40 miles away. Unfortunately, I didn't have any cash on me but offered to buy some gas in my gas can and fill his car. He thanked me profusely and then waited for me to gather my things to help him. When I finally did so, I could not find him. I searched everywhere but it seemed as though he was no where to be found. But it doesn't matter; I tried to do my good deed and so I'm sure that it was appreciated.

When a stranger approaches you and asks you for money, what do you do? Should you treat him or her as if they were a beggar on the street asking for money? If that's the case, would you just quietly hand over cash to them in hopes that they'll use it for something good? Or do you just ignore them, grunt, and hope that they go away? Unfortunately, there are no easy answers to this dilemma that many people find themselves in everyday, but there are some things that will help each person decide what to do.

1. Consider the Legitimacy

When you are asked for money, ask yourself whether or not the person that approached you seems to be telling the truth. In a world that is filled with lies and deception, one can never be too careful when trying to naively help out a stranger. Deciding whether or not the person asking for help truly needs money or whether or not they're just trying to get their Saturday night beer.

Obviously when you are approached by beggars on the street it is usually clear that they absolutely do need money for food and clothing. But when you are in a fast food restaurant or stopped at a gas station and approached by a person who looks able-bodied, the answer might not be so clear cut. Be sure to take time to consider the legitimacy of the situation.

2. Decide What You'll Give

Many of the people who are in desperate need of legitimate help may need gasoline for their car, money for a phone, food for their bellies, a spare tire, or even a car ride home. If a person is asking for outright money, chances are very high that they are not going to use it for the purpose that they're saying they will. However, if they are asking for money for a specific purpose and don't even mind if you buy them that specific item (i.e. gas for a car, an actual spare tire, a meal), then it's a good chance that they actually do need that help.

Giving things and actual help instead of money to a person in need will not only assure you that you've given them what they need, but it also prevents them from taking advantage of your help and using it for something else.

Many people are approached every day with this type of situation and, unfortunately, their intention is taken advantage of by the person that has begged them for help. These are some definite tips to help you decide what to do the next time you are asked to help a person in need. Just remember to look for honesty and truth in the individual asking for help, and that no good deed goes unrewarded!