Village of Oak Park’s Panhandling Campaign: Make Real Change, Not Spare Change
The Village of Oak Park is launching a campaign to educate the public about alternative ways to support individuals experiencing homelessness or poverty, without directly giving money to panhandlers. Panhandling, which involves asking for money or goods in a public space, can be either passive or aggressive and is legal in the state of Illinois.
The "Make Real Change, Not Spare Change" campaign encourages residents and visitors to donate to local non-profits that provide long-term solutions to homelessness and poverty. The initiative focuses on:
Supporting local businesses
Coordinating community resources
Improving public safety and its perception
Promoting sustainable, systemic solutions