GOD HELPS THOSE WHO HELPS THEMSELVES.” Benjamin Franklin

“The poor shall always be among us.” Jesus, the Christ

My occupation is one that assists those with mental and/or physical challenges gain and maintain employment. I know that in this society many have fallen on hard times and we should do all that we can to help those in need of assistance, but I believe that there is a difference between helping people and enabling them. I help people in my job to become independent through employment and move forward with their lives.

The Bible also says in Ephesians 4:28 “Let the thief no longer steal, but rather let him labor doing honest work with his own hands that he may have something to share with anyone in need.” I know that not everyone is of the Christian faith and I know that we should help others in need but I WILL NOT be taken advantage of. So, I have changed my way of helping. Instead of giving money, I give my business card, a handout with locations in my city that provide assistance, and if they need something to eat, I purchase a submarine sandwich with a drink for them. Believe it or not, I have had various ones refuse this form of assistance.

Yes, I know and accept that the poor will always be among us and I will continue to aide those who are working to get OFF the corner. As for those who are PROFESSIONAL CORNER PANHANDLERS . . . STOP IT because you are making things harder for those who REALLY need a hand up.

~~~Malinda~~~