New program launched to help improve panhandling in City of Albany

Real change is up to you. Help those who help others. Give where & when it’s safe to give.

The three Business Improvement Districts located within the City of Albany have partnered on an education and safety campaign that aims to simplify the way we give to those in need. Albany's citizens who are homeless or facing homelessness may not even be aware of the numerous, highly-effective outreach agencies available to help them by providing direct aid and long-term assistance.

All donations obtained through the Give Real Change program are turned over directly to the organizations that have the capacity to service the homeless population here in our city. These professional outreach organizations know the most effective way to lend support to those in need better than anyone.

When you consider helping people in need, we encourage you to support them by giving to groups who can provide Real Change - not just for the moment, but maybe for a lifetime.

This initiative is comprised of several helpful tools:

• An educational piece that is made available in print and online, explaining legal panhandling and when it crosses over into being illegal.
• Six donation stations (pictured above) made from re-purposed parking meters serve as a place where one can donate spare change. The now vibrantly-colored meters were donated by the Albany Parking Authority while Albany Center Gallery helped coordinate the artists who painted them. 
• A website allowing people to donate to the non-profit of their choice online - a safe alternative to giving money at traffic intersections.
• Double-sided printed cards with directions on how a homeless individual can receive help as well as how you can give help directly to service agencies to affect real change.