Campaign Discourages Panhandler Donations Launches In Prince William County

MANASSAS, VA — While Prince William County's Board of County Supervisors is still considering measures to address panhandling, it is moving forward with a communications campaign to aimed at reducing the behavior.

In October, the board had deferred action on a funding proposal addressing panhandling that included a jobs program. However, supervisors expressed interest in moving forward sooner with the communications component of the proposal. On Nov. 26, supervisors approved funding for a communications campaign to discourage residents to not give directly to panhandlers.

The new messaging campaign, named "Give Where It Counts," urges residents to donate to local nonprofits addressing needs like housing, food, mental health and job training rather than giving directly to panhandlers.

"Many people want to help, but direct handouts often do not provide the long-term assistance individuals need," said Board of County Supervisors Chair Deshundra Jefferson in a statement. "By choosing to donate to nonprofits in our community, we’re empowering organizations that can deliver real solutions and make a meaningful impact."

According to a previous Inside Nova report, Sudley Road in Manassas has been a particular area of concern for panhandling in the roadways. Panhandling is not illegal due to a U.S. Supreme Court ruling that the practice is First Amendment protected.

The county government estimated that panhandlers can make as much as $200 per day by seeking money from passing drivers at intersections. However, the county says this money does not address the root causes that lead people to panhandle. Some but not all panhandlers are homeless but may need other critical services like food, shelter, work, financial assistance, behavioral health services and medical care.

The new initiative provides a list of local nonprofits under the Prince William Area Homeless Services Continuum of Care that residents can donate too. Residents can also access downloadable posters, flyers and social media materials to spread awareness about the panhandling communications campaign.

The campaign will initially run through December and start up again in the warmer months when the county sees panhandling increase. The county plans to share the messaging through social media, streaming services, local malls, buses, movie theaters and more.

Because panhandling is First Amendment protected, Prince William County Police can only respond to panhandling when involving a traffic or criminal offense. Residents may contact police at 911 or the non-emergency number at 703-792-6500.

Residents may also contact the county to seek outreach services for panhandlers by calling 703-792-3939 or emailing pwcpanhandling@pwcgov.org with a location on where they saw the panhandlers.

"We understand that there’s more work to be done, but this campaign is a strong start," said Jefferson. "Together, we can help ensure that our giving truly counts by supporting the organizations that provide lasting help to those in need."