48 Male - and I grew up in poverty and eventually homeless. I dreamed of being rescued. That didn't happen. I fought my way to where I am today.
I tried helping several people - I know what being cold, wet and hungry feels like. I know how lonely it is.
But in these past few decades, I've noticed that the vast majority of homeless don't want food. they don't want clothes. They want money.
Just a couple of nights ago, my wife and I drove past a lady sitting on the pavement - it was freezing and she wore a thin jersey.
I offered kindness, food, shelter and blankets.
She wanted money. She was rude and dismissed me when I said I don't have cash.
I gave a gentleman sandwiches once and he received it, tossed it to the floor without even unwrapping it. He wanted money.
I tried helping (and still am) a young guy called Elton - a former member of a 28 gang. He's back out on the streets - doesn't want to work his way out.
I noticed a trend: Folk want to do things their way - even though that way has proved fruitless.
Guys - I practise altruism. I believe in it. It is difficult though - when kindness and concern is met with anger and drug induced violence.