Do NOT give money to street children!

Sure, there's an "economic crisis" and you may see more beggars on the streets, including child beggars. But before you give that urchin with the big, sad, hungry eyes your loose change, keep the following things in mind.

Money given directly to street children:

• promotes a lifestyle of begging


• is frequently used to buy harmful substances


• is given to adults who force the children to beg for them


• encourages crime

If you want to help poor children, support legitimate non-profit organizations that do that task.