FORT SMITH, Ark. — The City of Fort Smith has released a statement describing the environmental impact of "homeless handouts." In the statement, the city says that "Handouts, though given with the best intentions, are having a negative impact environmentally on our community."
Fort Smith officials say when the public gives these handouts to someone who is homeless, large amounts of trash and debris are accumulated. In the announcement, the city included a photo of an encampment in Fort Smith showing "the devastation left behind for an owner to clean up once vacated."
Fort Smith City Administrator Carl E. Geffken, says it's best for the homeless when people donate to non-profits, “Give to those nonprofit organizations that are set up specifically to assist the homeless and help them get out of being homeless. So many people think that it's best to give to panhandlers on street corners or to give the one-off piece of food to somebody, that doesn't help them, because that doesn't help break the cycle of homelessness.” Geffken said.
University of Arkansas Professor Dr. Kevin Fitzpatrick who teaches Sociology and Criminology, also believes this is the most logical way to deal with this issue. "On the structural policy side, yes, I think it's a good idea that we look to other organizations to organize and develop programs that will either help people off the street."
Fort Smith said in the place of handouts, residents can text "Fort" to 91999 to donate, where reportedly 100% of the donation goes to nonprofits that serve the homeless in the form of health care and addiction assistance for those impacted by homelessness.
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