George Herald | Think before giving

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Think before giving
10:00 (GMT+2), Sun, 03 June 2012

WESTERN CAPE NEWS - The Western Cape Street Children's Forum (WCSCF) has issued a plea to would-be philanthropists to think before they give.

These well-intentioned acts of kindness do no more than to perpetuate the problems faced by these children.

According to WCSCF, giving money to children on the street serves only to encourage them to continue begging. As a result, these vulnerable children tend to leave home, drop out of school and often become involved with substance abuse.
Furthermore, it keeps these children from seeking the assistance of organisations which exist to assist them.

"Begging offers children no hope and no future," said WCSCF. People often erroneously believe that giving food or clothing to children on the street is more sensible than giving money. WCSCF said that this does not make any difference; the goods are sold or exchanged.

"If you really care, help by not giving money to children who beg," said WCSCF. The Western Cape has a comprehensive social grant system with many professional and specialised organisations to help.

Visit the forum's website at www.wcscf.co.za.