Bums - not always needy and other Berkeley, CA Tourist Trap Tips

While there is an understandable homeless issue facing the Berkeley area, people who are not used to being asked for handouts should beware. There are some, most notably on Telegraph Ave. and even then the younger set, who are not really homeless, but dress up in rags and panhandle as a way to make some extra cash. There were a series of articles on this years ago, about how suburban teens (who had quite a bit of money) showed up to bum cash off of unsuspecting tourists and students so they could party. Really ruins your feelings about the area and about giving to people, for there are those who are on the streets who could genuinely use your help.

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At Least Do This: Well, if you are there and are approached by someone, keep an eye on their age. Younger people are more often (note: not more likely) the ones who try to trick you by dressing up as a homeless person. And you can always do the "let me get you something to eat/drink" instead of just dumping off change or a bill onto them. That might weed out those who are looking to score cash, as they do not really want food cause they're not very needy. Just keep your eyes and ears open.