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Edmontonians Urged to Give Change for "Real" Change

July 20, 2010

Have a Heart-Give Smart campaign launches

Edmontonians are being asked to donate spare change to social service agencies that help people in need instead of giving money to panhandlers.

“Edmontonians care about each other, but when we give money to panhandlers, we may not be giving the help we intend,” said Kathy Barnhart, Branch Manager of Neighbourhood and Community Development with the City of Edmonton’s Community Services department. “Giving spare change may discourage people on the street from accessing community supports that can help them make real change.”

The City’s 10-week public awareness campaign sends the message that it's okay to say “No” to panhandling and “Yes” to giving. Have a Heart-Give Smart street teams will be out and about in a donated Smart Car to talk with Edmontonians about how best to help people who panhandle. They will have tips on how to respond to panhandlers and information on the many social service agencies in Edmonton that support people in need.

Street teams will also accept donations from those who want to give money immediately. All proceeds will go to Boyle Street Community Services and the Bissell Centre. People donating cash will be given a granola bar, which they can choose to eat or give to a panhandler instead of money.

“Panhandling is a complex issue and many people in the community are working together to address its underlying causes,” said David Berger, Deputy Director of Boyle Street Community Services. “It’s important for Edmontonians to talk about these issues and urge community groups and elected officials to look for long-term solutions.”

The campaign is focused on downtown Edmonton, Old Strathcona and Callingwood -- areas where panhandling has raised concerns.

“Giving money to a panhandler may seem like a good thing to do, but that simple action can have serious consequences,” said Shirley Lowe, Executive Director of the Old Strathcona Business Association. “The more panhandlers work a specific area, the more uncomfortable people become.”

Have A Heart-Give Smart campaign is part of an integrated approach to panhandling. The City is working with the Integrated Panhandling Advisory Committee to develop solutions to this complex issue and address its root causes.

The campaign runs until the end of September. David Morris Fine Cars Ltd. donated the Have a Heart-Give Smart Smart Car. Local Save-On-Foods stores donated the granola bars.