FRESNO (KMJ) — Another proposal to combat panhandling in the City of Fresno has been unveiled by Councilmember Garry Bredefeld. The “Help Us Help Fresno” initiative would encourage passing motorists to give to non-profits instead of directly to those standing at intersections.
It comes after the STOP ordinance (Safe Transfer of Objects to Pedestrians), proposed by former Councilmember Steve Brandau, was rejected by Fresno City Council last month (click here to read more). Critics suggested that it criminalized people asking for money instead of assisting those in need.
“There’s a better way to help people than give them a dollar, couple dollars, change. It is really helping local charities who are actually involved in doing the work,” said Bredefeld.
“Helping those folks will make a difference. Giving panhandlers money keeps them homeless, keeps them on the streets.”
If approved, approximately 150 signs would be placed at various intersections throughout Fresno encouraging drivers to give to local charities instead of panhandlers. The cost to the City of Fresno would be around $20,000,
The proposal has the support of Councilmembers Paul Caprioglio and Miguel Arias, as well as Fresno Police Chief Jerry Dyer.
“The Rescue Mission, the Poverello House, the Salvation Army, all of these organizations that tend to the needs of the homeless,” said Chief Dyer. “Can you imagine what they could do with the thousands of dollars that are given to the homeless or to individuals who are panhandling?”
The announcement at Fresno’s Blackstone and Herndon was also attended by people opposed to the idea. Protestors asked if the money could go towards funding a dedicated low-barrier shelter for those who cannot live by the rules of the established centers.
Responding to him, Councilmember Miguel Arias said that such a place is coming.
“Homeless, there is not one solution. There is multiple steps that you have to take to address everyone’s needs. This [the initiative] is one of those steps, the shelter will be another.”
In the middle of @GarryBredefeld‘s announcement of the “Help Us Help Fresno” initiative in NW Fresno, this protestor made himself heard loud enough for @FresnoPolice Chief Dyer to respond. More on @KMJNOW. pic.twitter.com/bzjsSCAkkD
— Dom McAndrew (@DomMcAndrew) April 10, 2019
The “Help Us Help Fresno” proposal will be submitted to Fresno City Council on Thursday.
Hear the report from KMJ’s Dominic McAndrew as it aired:
