Discussions

I have approached by a person today near Canadian tire, approaching me for Money, for food, I heard this one before, he was clean,he wasn't drunk. I was working not into giving cause struggling as it is, the thing that bothers me the most, the follow me to my car. He was not threatening to me, but my safety with close proximity of him following me makes me angry.  
 
Why is there no a BY-Law against this?

I love being followed into the Scotiabank front teller at 10pm by some guy pretending to use the machine beside me only to conveniently wrap up his banking at the same time as me so he can put on a show about how the bank suckered him and now he needs a handout. This is the beginning to a very large problem, the police service might want to start working with the city to have this remedied sooner rather than later. We're considered a pretty safe city, of all the things that need to be changed that shouldn't be one of them.

followed to my car one time after being asked for something. I did not get in my car, as I thought it would be a to confined space. I walk past and took out my cell phone, to pretend I was calling someone and he turned around and life.

As drug use (specifically meth) goes up, so will panhandling. So many users will be unable to hold a job, keep their life in order. Sure hope something can be done: there was enough crime last summer. P.S. I am not generalizing all panhandlers as drug users! Just suggesting that the two problems go hand in hand. P.P.S. I have been approached in the Canadian Tire parking lot as well: there are a couple of people that work it regularly.

while i sympathize and its nice to be helpful, compassionate and understanding many of the panhandlers do it as a job, with brandon being as "nice" as they are ( see the other 7/11 & CT threads) it works for those few who do it, honestly Brandon isnt that bad compared to other places but imo if we dont want beggars donate to the Samaritan house to encourage they go there instead of harassing people

during regular banking hours at least.  
3 out of the 4 times I've gone in to my downtown bank branch so far this year I've been approached as I've gotten out of my car, asking for money. I haven't even had a chance to go in yet! This is during the day and I feel intimidated so needless to say I do not go near the downtown branch in the evenings, to use the bank machine or if I need to see a teller.

Windinthetrees said "during regular banking hours at least.   3 out of the 4 times I've gone in to my downtown bank branch so far this year I've been approached as I've gotten out of my car, asking for money. I haven't even had a chance to go in yet! This is during the day and I feel intimidated so needless to say I do not go near the downtown branch in the evenings, to use the bank machine or if I need to see a teller. "

discussions with my bank branch downtown about this as well.  
 
They claim to have employees go out and monitor the lot every so often, but can't say as though I have seen it. I just don't go after hours unless I can park right in front of their building. They often have people sleeping in the heated vestibule as well. If I see that, I drive right by.  
 
Have noticed the same guy bothering people in the Shoppers Drug Mart parking lot on 18th too. You could see how ticked it was making people, many of us ran to our vehicles when he would be busy asking other cars - and you could see him following people to vehicles.

I've been asked quite a few times at my car in sobeys. I give change if I have it or say no if I don't want to. just say no, I don't see it as a big deal?

Not sure if there's a By-law against panhandling here in Brandon, but if the panhandlers are aggressive or making customers feel unsafe, the business should be made aware of it and the cops should be called.  
 
But I do know it's against the law to ask for money in front of a bank or ATM.

Canadian Tire's lot is private property. I imagine they could be removed from there & charged.

if they can walk that much to follow people sure they could get a job perhaps not primer minister job but any minimum wage job.  
Shoppers Mall prohibits those people so rush to find a security man to report it.

We were at shoppers mall yesterday and there was a man lingering outside the main doors asking for money.. It was around 2 in the afternoon.

There's also always a guy at the Dollarama in the Corral Centre. It's always 50/50 with him. He's been nice to me, but he's also been very rude when I've said no.  
 
I also avoid superstore in the evenings now because of a panhandler I've encountered a few times whose followed me to my car.

Before saying there should be a by-law for such a thing, do your research first....  
 
From the City of Brandon Nuisance By-Law No. 5806:  
 
No person shall be allowed to stand in groups or to sit or lounge on chairs, benches or other things or to loiter in front of any business establishment or residence or in a street so as to cause any obstruction to the free use of said street or, by any manner of conduct, commit any public nuisance by collecting, loitering or standing as an idler on any of the streets or sidewalks of the City, or in any public place within the City, or on the step of or approach to a house or other premises open to a street whereby a member or members of the public are liable to be subjected to disturbance or annoyance provided that nothing contained in this Section shall be construed to extend to any person taking part in any lawful procession or gathering.

Maybe, instead of investing dollars in to By-Laws (and the wages for officers to enforce this), we rather use those dollars and cents to invest in to Support Centers for those in need?  
 
Why is the reaction always to find a By-Law to push those in need away from us, when we should be helping those who are less fortunate?  
 
In my opinion, in a city where the support needed is scarce and the public reaction to homeless people is to scoff at them and push them away - I really don't mind them approaching and asking for spare change.  
 
Some of you need to alter your perspective. Not every homeless person is struggling with drug/alcohol dependencies, and even if they are - our instinct should not be to push them away but rather help them find the support structures they need.  
 
Sometimes in life, you come on hard times. Most of you (myself i:ncluded) will never understand what situations can lead to homelessness, but it can happen quickly.  
 
That doesn't absolve us from doing our part to make sure when others are in need, we respond accordingly.  
 
Something to also keep in mind - those who are in parking lots asking for food & money are in a situation mentally that is something most of you will never comprehend.  
 
Most importantly, in that state of mind (where you've succumbed to asking people for food and money) your ability to perceive social queues - such as body language and phrases used to tell someone you're uncomfortable with their presence just aren't pereceived. You're not in the right frame of mind to handle rejection of a basic need (food/money).  
 
You people need to understand this, and be a little more forgiving to those who don't have the life you currently have.  
 
Well have tough times, and being hard on those who are going through a tough time will never solve the problem.

The Nuisance By-Law pertains to this type of activity as mentioned.  
 
The store owners/manager would have to call BPS to have it enforced. Many times I would suspect the panhandlers have moved along before Police arrive.  
 
Edited by Oryx, 2017-03-06 11:36:36

They need a job and work for a living to feel what it feels like to earn something. Giving hand outs only supports the problem and makes it worse. We need to stop giving hand outs whether it's personal or government. I know people rant and post things about it on Facebook and forum sites but what can we actually do to be to stop this madness....... and as far as being "fair" let them pay the taxes I pay and see how fair they think it is. I personally would not willingly give anymore of my money to these people and can not see how others could. In my opinion, it's probably people that have gotten these hand outs that are asking for more for you personally.

Chewey85 said "Maybe, instead of investing dollars in to By-Laws (and the wages for officers to enforce this), we rather use those dollars and cents to invest in to Support Centers for those in need?     Why is the reaction always to find a By-Law to push those in need away from us, when we should be helping those who are less fortunate?     In my opinion, in a city where the support needed is scarce and the public reaction to homeless people is to scoff at them and push them away - I really don't mind them approaching and asking for spare change.     Some of you need to alter your perspective. Not every homeless person is struggling with drug/alcohol dependencies, and even if they are - our instinct should not be to push them away but rather help them find the support structures they need.     Sometimes in life, you come on hard times. Most of you (myself i:ncluded) will never understand what situations can lead to homelessness, but it can happen quickly.     That doesn't absolve us from doing our part to make sure when others are in need, we respond accordingly.     Something to also keep in mind - those who are in parking lots asking for food & money are in a situation mentally that is something most of you will never comprehend.     Most importantly, in that state of mind (where you've succumbed to asking people for food and money) your ability to perceive social queues - such as body language and phrases used to tell someone you're uncomfortable with their presence just aren't pereceived. You're not in the right frame of mind to handle rejection of a basic need (food/money).     You people need to understand this, and be a little more forgiving to those who don't have the life you currently have.     Well have tough times, and being hard on those who are going through a tough time will never solve the problem. "

isn't there support for people in need in our city?  
 
Surely someone reading this thread could provide details?

What I don't understand for those that say draw them in closer to give them help. I get a lot of sad stories down on luck would love to be worker, the same sad song. Give them a business card tell them to stop in....cause hey if you can stay outside begging for 8 hours why not do it earning some skills. Well I never do see those people walk into the building. You cannot help someone that doesn't want to help themselves. Many believe it is easier to get a hand out than work for it.

dueindecember said "I've been asked quite a few times at my car in sobeys. I give change if I have it or say no if I don't want to. just say no, I don't see it as a big deal? "

I did say no. There were not a lot of people around and I was followed to my car after saying no, which is why I took out my cell phone to pretend to call someone.

Chewey85 said "Maybe, instead of investing dollars in to By-Laws (and the wages for officers to enforce this), we rather use those dollars and cents to invest in to Support Centers for those in need?     Why is the reaction always to find a By-Law to push those in need away from us, when we should be helping those who are less fortunate?     In my opinion, in a city where the support needed is scarce and the public reaction to homeless people is to scoff at them and push them away - I really don't mind them approaching and asking for spare change.     Some of you need to alter your perspective. Not every homeless person is struggling with drug/alcohol dependencies, and even if they are - our instinct should not be to push them away but rather help them find the support structures they need.     Sometimes in life, you come on hard times. Most of you (myself i:ncluded) will never understand what situations can lead to homelessness, but it can happen quickly.     That doesn't absolve us from doing our part to make sure when others are in need, we respond accordingly.     Something to also keep in mind - those who are in parking lots asking for food & money are in a situation mentally that is something most of you will never comprehend.     Most importantly, in that state of mind (where you've succumbed to asking people for food and money) your ability to perceive social queues - such as body language and phrases used to tell someone you're uncomfortable with their presence just aren't pereceived. You're not in the right frame of mind to handle rejection of a basic need (food/money).     You people need to understand this, and be a little more forgiving to those who don't have the life you currently have.     Well have tough times, and being hard on those who are going through a tough time will never solve the problem. "

Couldn't have said it better.  
 
It's not generally a matter of "go get a job". It's mental illness, and for the most part people do not choose to be homeless or jobless.  
 
There is distinct lack of support in this community for our mentally ill, and few programs to help the mentally ill follow through and navigate the system.

Are a couple of resources available for those who need emergency funds. 1st is the 7th Street access center. They can provide a meal or some funds in case of emergency. 2nd is the provincial building also has emergency funds.  
I personally direct them to those 2 places. If they need it that badly they can go there and ask. That being said I will always buy them something to eat. I have been homeless and it's not easy. You cannot just go out and get a job without a stable home life. When your worrying about your next meal or where your going to sleep that night finding a job isn't your first priority. Speaking from experience it's hard. You can't even get welfare without somewhere to live. Most of them didn't choose this life. And I have sympathy for them because going through a hard part in your life and losing everything is tough. And sometimes you just need a bit of kindness. I will never forget one lady who helped me when I needed it the most.  
 
That all being said, I have been approached by some not so nice people asking for money or smokes. One guy called me stingy because I wouldn't give him either. Sorry when it's 2 pm and your already drunk and trying to get me to give you something that I had to work hard for is just not happening. Don't call me stingy because I won't give you smokes or money because you spent all your money at the bar down the street. Had he asked for something to eat I would have gotten him something. Name calling isn't the way to get why you want. But they are not all that bad.

Chewey85 said "Maybe, instead of investing dollars in to By-Laws (and the wages for officers to enforce this), we rather use those dollars and cents to invest in to Support Centers for those in need?     Why is the reaction always to find a By-Law to push those in need away from us, when we should be helping those who are less fortunate?     In my opinion, in a city where the support needed is scarce and the public reaction to homeless people is to scoff at them and push them away - I really don't mind them approaching and asking for spare change.     Some of you need to alter your perspective. Not every homeless person is struggling with drug/alcohol dependencies, and even if they are - our instinct should not be to push them away but rather help them find the support structures they need.     Sometimes in life, you come on hard times. Most of you (myself i:ncluded) will never understand what situations can lead to homelessness, but it can happen quickly.     That doesn't absolve us from doing our part to make sure when others are in need, we respond accordingly.     Something to also keep in mind - those who are in parking lots asking for food & money are in a situation mentally that is something most of you will never comprehend.     Most importantly, in that state of mind (where you've succumbed to asking people for food and money) your ability to perceive social queues - such as body language and phrases used to tell someone you're uncomfortable with their presence just aren't pereceived. You're not in the right frame of mind to handle rejection of a basic need (food/money).     You people need to understand this, and be a little more forgiving to those who don't have the life you currently have.     Well have tough times, and being hard on those who are going through a tough time will never solve the problem. "

Go to room 127 in the Federal office building on 9th. Employment Manitoba I think.  
 
On the right side in about the middle of the room is blue binder. Up until page 50 is page after page of support services. Including emergency housing. Contact info galore. 7th street access centre may have a similar book.  
 
After that is about food banks etc. There is no large lack of help offered.  
 
Yes there is wait lists for some but for some out there they do not want the type offered or need.

Doug said "    Chewey85 said "Maybe, instead of investing dollars in to By-Laws (and the wages for officers to enforce this), we rather use those dollars and cents to invest in to Support Centers for those in need?     Why is the reaction always to find a By-Law to push those in need away from us, when we should be helping those who are less fortunate?     In my opinion, in a city where the support needed is scarce and the public reaction to homeless people is to scoff at them and push them away - I really don't mind them approaching and asking for spare change.     Some of you need to alter your perspective. Not every homeless person is struggling with drug/alcohol dependencies, and even if they are - our instinct should not be to push them away but rather help them find the support structures they need.     Sometimes in life, you come on hard times. Most of you (myself i:ncluded) will never understand what situations can lead to homelessness, but it can happen quickly.     That doesn't absolve us from doing our part to make sure when others are in need, we respond accordingly.     Something to also keep in mind - those who are in parking lots asking for food & money are in a situation mentally that is something most of you will never comprehend.     Most importantly, in that state of mind (where you've succumbed to asking people for food and money) your ability to perceive social queues - such as body language and phrases used to tell someone you're uncomfortable with their presence just aren't pereceived. You're not in the right frame of mind to handle rejection of a basic need (food/money).     You people need to understand this, and be a little more forgiving to those who don't have the life you currently have.     Well have tough times, and being hard on those who are going through a tough time will never solve the problem. " Go to room 127 in the Federal office building on 9th. Employment Manitoba I think.     On the right side in about the middle of the room is blue binder. Up until page 50 is page after page of support services. Including emergency housing. Contact info galore. 7th street access centre may have a similar book.     After that is about food banks etc. There is no large lack of help offered.     Yes there is wait lists for some but for some out there they do not want the type offered or need. "

Maybe the services being offered should be more accessible to someone who's homeless rather than room 127 in a Federal Office building?

I don't always have the money to give people...and I haven't been approached that much. But if I have some I will give them some. If I don't I say sorry no. Just think how you would feel if it was you. What if you lost your job...lost your home...lost everything and didn't have anyone to go to. You may find yourself doing the same thing. I have seen people asking for money outside the bank...and I have seen a person go up to this person and tell them to get the F*&^ out of here and quit bothering everyone. I mean if you don't want to give them money..then say no and leave it at that... they are people just like the rest of us.

Chewey85 said "    Doug said "    Chewey85 said "Maybe, instead of investing dollars in to By-Laws (and the wages for officers to enforce this), we rather use those dollars and cents to invest in to Support Centers for those in need?     Why is the reaction always to find a By-Law to push those in need away from us, when we should be helping those who are less fortunate?     In my opinion, in a city where the support needed is scarce and the public reaction to homeless people is to scoff at them and push them away - I really don't mind them approaching and asking for spare change.     Some of you need to alter your perspective. Not every homeless person is struggling with drug/alcohol dependencies, and even if they are - our instinct should not be to push them away but rather help them find the support structures they need.     Sometimes in life, you come on hard times. Most of you (myself i:ncluded) will never understand what situations can lead to homelessness, but it can happen quickly.     That doesn't absolve us from doing our part to make sure when others are in need, we respond accordingly.     Something to also keep in mind - those who are in parking lots asking for food & money are in a situation mentally that is something most of you will never comprehend.     Most importantly, in that state of mind (where you've succumbed to asking people for food and money) your ability to perceive social queues - such as body language and phrases used to tell someone you're uncomfortable with their presence just aren't pereceived. You're not in the right frame of mind to handle rejection of a basic need (food/money).     You people need to understand this, and be a little more forgiving to those who don't have the life you currently have.     Well have tough times, and being hard on those who are going through a tough time will never solve the problem. " Go to room 127 in the Federal office building on 9th. Employment Manitoba I think.     On the right side in about the middle of the room is blue binder. Up until page 50 is page after page of support services. Including emergency housing. Contact info galore. 7th street access centre may have a similar book.     After that is about food banks etc. There is no large lack of help offered.     Yes there is wait lists for some but for some out there they do not want the type offered or need. " Maybe the services being offered should be more accessible to someone who's homeless rather than room 127 in a Federal Office building? "

if someone can wander from parking lot to parking lot and spend the day on his feet doing this, I'm thinking he must have enough energy to get himself into room 127 at the Provincial Building and that doesn't work out for him, he can take the elevator up one floor to Employment and Income Assistance. Geez

As someone who has spent almost 40 years living in Brandon, I cannot remember this being a big problem as a kid growing up here. Has panhandling gotten worse since the Mental Health Center closed? Perhaps having such a facility wasn't such a bad thing? If a facility like that still existed these people with mental health issues, panhandling, would be getting the help they need? Just wondering

Murman said "As someone who has spent almost 40 years living in Brandon, I cannot remember this being a big problem as a kid growing up here. Has panhandling gotten worse since the Mental Health Center closed? Perhaps having such a facility wasn't such a bad thing? If a facility like that still existed these people with mental health issues, panhandling, would be getting the help they need? Just wondering "

there is still a mental health facility. It is called the Centre for Adult Psychiatry, connected to the hospital.

It is very easy for people to judge others when they have no understanding of the real issue. Its easy to say get a job! Not so easy when you have no home, no work gear, no food, no transportation, no support of family, no self-esteem, and no community. Lost in the system that plots against the poor and unprotected. Beat down by a system that doesn't care. As soon as the welfare system gives these poor souls an increase in there benefits, people jack the rents to take full advantage of rate increase. These people live in very poor conditions and have no options open to them. Most have to choose pay rent or eat. I would guess that all the negative comments on this issue are coming from people who don't have clue what these people are up against. My heart breaks for these people and what makes it worse is reading the judgment of the community of these people without real understanding of the issue. Does it make you feel good, powerful, better than or what. We have no right to be judging these folks. The next time you watch your cable, in your warm house, eating good nutritional food, talking to your family and friends, ask yourself "Do I really care if one person asked me for some help today? "

Brenda said "    Murman said "As someone who has spent almost 40 years living in Brandon, I cannot remember this being a big problem as a kid growing up here. Has panhandling gotten worse since the Mental Health Center closed? Perhaps having such a facility wasn't such a bad thing? If a facility like that still existed these people with mental health issues, panhandling, would be getting the help they need? Just wondering " there is still a mental health facility. It is called the Centre for Adult Psychiatry, connected to the hospital. "

Do you know how many beds are at CAP? I think there is a need for more beds. I know of people who have attempted suicide but they never spent any or enough time in CAP to be treated properly. The end result was not pretty. Sorry, a little off the subject but just as important.