Editor,

Giving money to panhandlers may make you feel better about “the kindness of your charitable act,” but giving no thought to how that money will be spent is definitely not a kindness. You are most likely funding the drug and/or alcohol addiction of somebody’s son, daughter, brother, sister, mother or father.

A big concern with the panhandlers is their location at the entrance/exit of Safeway. With the constant flow of traffic in and out and on the street, it is not a safe spot for anyone to be loitering.

Since the panhandlers are now on shift rotation and at times have up to three people visiting them along with bicycles and other possessions on that small space, it’s an accident waiting to happen. It is mind boggling that anyone is allowed to be a distraction at that very busy spot.

The panhandlers are increasing, most likely because they are not dissuaded in any way.

Oak Harbor does not have the facilities or employment opportunities to put them back on the right track. It’s a disservice to the panhandlers to help them remain victims of their addictions.

If you need to make yourself feel good, give food not money.

Kathleen Sulak

Oak Harbor