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 Handout advises against handouts By Gene Friedman Cpl. Charlie Fields is the “Quality of Life” officer for the Savannah Chatham Metropolitan Police Department. He initiated and has for two years successfully managed, the Homeless OutReach Program designed to assist the city’s 4,500 homeless people. Fields is an experienced and charismatic street cop who has been very successful in curbing some of the worst abuses that have occurred among this population. He has also been extremely active in educating the public at large in methods to deal with these people in a guiltless, non-judgmental way. Following are recommendations from Fields’ handout on this subject. The SCMPD asks people “to help discourage panhandling in Savannah by refusing those who ask for change on the street. By doing this you will foster a better environment for all. Avoid supporting what is, in many cases, an alcoholic and destructive lifestyle.” For those who are concerned about a panhandler’s well-being, Fields’ handout offers the following information: “ Numerous resources are available through support agencies for those who wish to utilize them and [people] need not feel guilty for saying no to panhandlers.” People should call the police department at 232-4141 if an individual verbally or physically threatens them in an attempt to obtain money. Such actions are a violation of City Ordinance 9-1001, which prohibits the soliciting for money within the City of Savannah without a license. The handout also advises that operation will help to maintain a harassment-free environment in the Hostess City of the South. “Please help to curtail the harassment of visitors by refusing to give money to panhandlers.” Fields is extremely knowledgeable about this issue and encourages people to call him if they have questions about the homeless or panhandling. Friedman is director of college security at SCAD. |
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