I've always had a straightforward policy when it came to the individually needy: I will give food or durable goods, but I will not give money. There are myriad reasons for this, ranging from "I refuse to fund your addiction," to "You're going to get rolled for that money by the guy watching us from the shadows the second I walk away."

But it surprises me how rarely someone will accept an offer of food or even a spare jacket from the trunk of my car. Whether I'm right to think it or not, I suspect that it's because, at the end of the day, these people are destitute because they cannot successfully balance their needs and their wants.

With charities, too, I donate my time and my employer will match that time with a cash donation, but I don't give money. I've simply seen too many poorly-managed or mismanaged non-profit organizations in my day.

And if I'm ever down on my luck, I don't expect anyone or any organization to come through with a stack of bills for me. I'll be grateful for an old coat or a hot cheeseburger. :)