Because when an addict wants something, they'll lie. Even if they should really use the money for a sandwich, they'll buy the 40 first. Not to say all homeless are addicts, but when they're asking you within walking distance of a liquor store...
I'd rather buy them food or a (non-alcoholic) drink. I rarely have cash on me anyway so I've just had a guy throw his food on my bill when I went into a convenience store before.
I've literally told a guy I'd go into Wawa with him and buy his lunch, but he admitted to my face he wanted the money for the liquor store next door.
When you feel like shit and your life isn't going so great, your self-control isn't exactly great. I'd rather be a positive influence than an enabler.
EDIT: and just for some perspective, I unfortunately used to work in a liquor store in Ortley Beach, NJ where I saw a lot of shit and also have lots of, uh, substance abuse issues in my family. Not to mention NJ has a pretty bad heroin problem in general and it's currently fucking up my hometown.
I'd rather buy them food or a (non-alcoholic) drink. I rarely have cash on me anyway so I've just had a guy throw his food on my bill when I went into a convenience store before.
I've literally told a guy I'd go into Wawa with him and buy his lunch, but he admitted to my face he wanted the money for the liquor store next door.
When you feel like shit and your life isn't going so great, your self-control isn't exactly great. I'd rather be a positive influence than an enabler.
EDIT: and just for some perspective, I unfortunately used to work in a liquor store in Ortley Beach, NJ where I saw a lot of shit and also have lots of, uh, substance abuse issues in my family. Not to mention NJ has a pretty bad heroin problem in general and it's currently fucking up my hometown.