The truth about panhandling is most people aren’t getting rich. Most aren’t even surviving.

In the three hours before this interview, Mohammad made 25 cents. People walking by ignored him, cursed at him, and treated him like garbage. But let’s be honest about something else too. Who’s hiring a homeless man with one arm, a criminal record, and years on the street? Mohammad was shot six times gang banging and spent time in prison. He says God gave him a second chance at life. Illinois says he can work, so he doesn’t qualify for disability. Illinois also doesn’t provide welfare for single adults. So his only income is panhandling. People love to say “just get a job,” but what job? Who is realistically giving him a chance? This is why some people will remain homeless unless we provide supportive housing and real help. Otherwise the choices become panhandling, survival crimes, jail, or death on the streets.