Unless I’m overcome by a serious case of pity, I don’t usually give to street beggars. To me, giving to them is just an quick feel-happy activity that doesn’t really accomplish much. At best, you make someone happy though you’re probably the one who feel happiest (is that selfish or what?). But at what cost? Encouraging them to risk life and limb at the thoroughfares? At worst, you may actually be contributing to aggressive begging and to the exploitation of the weaker beggars (yes, syndicates). Also, you are already giving thanks to the government. Social welfare is one of its functions and part of your taxes goes there. But since the government is notoriously corrupt in so many levels, there is no doubt the social welfare budget have been seriously diminished by the time it actually reaches those who need it. So it would actually be good if you can supplement by giving. But not at the street. And not to the government, they’ve taken enough. The better choices would be the church and NGOs involved in education, livelihood, micro-credit, cash transfers, etc. Make your gift matter. Make your gift count.