Beware if You Give Money to Panhandlers

A public education campaign will start this fall in Yakima to help curb the problem of panhandling.

Yakima City Manager Tony O'Rourke says he's recommending the city council pass a proposed ordinance next month that makes it illegal to receive items from vehicles at 15 of Yakima’s busiest intersections.

O'Rourke does stress that for the ordinance to be effective there needs to be a public information campaign so drivers know what to do and what not to do.

O'Rourke says if you want to help the homeless give to legitimate organizations in the community not panhandlers who O'Rourke believes only use the handouts for alcohol or drugs.