en-us https://www.intensedebate.com/users/812176 Comments by jpmama http://www.bakersfieldnow.com/news/investigations/85892547.html#IDComment59466695 I was physically challenged (triple amputee) late in my working career due to a rare disease and I returned to work seven months after. I chose to continue working for many years more. I am forever thankful/grateful to my employer and immediate bosses for allowing me to return to work. I know there are extenuating circumstances for some but I feel there are far too many who feel it is easier to work on the guilt of others - they know it works for them because the majority of society cares! Shame on those who prey on hard working people who "work" for a living. For those who are truly down and out, I donate to organizations geared towards helping them. For those who approach me in parking lots, etc., I just shake my head "no" and wave them off as I walk past them. Wed, 3 Mar 2010 02:52:37 +0000 http://www.bakersfieldnow.com/news/investigations/85892547.html#IDComment59466695 http://www.bakersfieldnow.com/news/investigations/85892547.html#IDComment59450129 My niece came up w/a really unique idea. When approached by panhandlers if you are in your car, have a small baggie filled w/sealed non-refrigerated items such as a fruit cup, a plastic spoon, a bottle of water, a pop-top canned food item, etc. available and offer it to them in place of money. If they refuse, then you know they were looking for $$ for drugs or alcohol. I used to feel guilty if I refused to help w/$$ but a good friend of mine said there are many places they can get help such as the Homeless Shelter and that I should not feel guilty. Maybe from time to time information could be broadcasted and sent to everyone on where these homeless people/panhandlers can be referred to would be helpful. Wed, 3 Mar 2010 00:59:50 +0000 http://www.bakersfieldnow.com/news/investigations/85892547.html#IDComment59450129