Panhandling

Many people who panhandle need a variety of essential materials and assistance. This can include food, shelter, employment, financial assistance, behavioral health care and medical care.

• Donations of cash will not help solve the underlying reasons why someone panhandles.
• Unfortunately, there are individuals who may use false stories to solicit money and assistance from residents.

Helping to connect people who panhandle to Fairfax County services opens doors to fulfilling a multitude of needs they may have (which often cannot be resolved with small cash donations); It also helps to ensure that valuable resources and assistance are being directed to those in need.

Asking for money is a protected act under the First Amendment, allowed in public areas such as roadway medians.

Our Police Department receives thousands of calls related to people who panhandle, which range from concerns for the person seen panhandling to fears about a suspicious person at an intersection.

• Officers will intervene when people engaged in panhandling commit traffic offenses or engage in criminal activity.
• Officers will refer people who panhandle to available county human services but cannot force them to receive services.

Consider donating to one of our nonprofit community partners dedicated to assisting our residents in need:

• Nonprofit Partners | Office to Prevent and End Homelessness

Consider volunteering your time. It’s far more than doing a good deed, it's a way to develop skills, learn more about career options, make professional contacts, socialize and, importantly, have an impact on your community.