The City of Vernon is reminding residents that the Kindness Meters around the city’s downtown core are an alternative to giving change to panhandlers. These orange painted, identifiable meters provide another option and opportunity for residents wishing to provide aid to individuals who panhandle in our community, ensuring that the money donated goes directly to service providers that feed and house the homeless community in Vernon.
“While panhandling on public property is a legal activity and protected under the Charter of Rights and Freedoms in Canada, the Province of B.C.’s Safe Streets Act and the City of Vernon’s City’s Good Neighbour Bylaw have restricted certain panhandling activities,” said Clint Kanester, Manager of Protective Services.
Panhandling to vehicles on a roadway is prohibited due to traffic safety concerns. While panhandling on public areas such as City-owned sidewalks is allowable, there are restrictions around panhandling at certain locations (such as near banks, bus stops or liquor stores), continuing to panhandle to an individual after that person has said or indicated no, panhandling after dark, panhandling from seated position on a sidewalk or aggressively panhandling, such as following, touching and/or continued requests for money.
“There are tips that citizens who encounter a panhandler may wish to observe,” said Kanester. “Briefly acknowledge the panhandler. If asked for money, simply say, “Sorry,” move purposefully towards your destination, do not engage or allow yourself to be engaged, don’t fumble for change or make excuses. And don’t forget to donate to the Kindness Meters, so that the money you donate goes directly to the agencies that help.”
The City has collected $2,427.51 on behalf of social agencies since the implementation of the Kindness Meter program in June 2016.