The new signs direct drivers to donate to several nonprofits supporting people who are homeless in Fort Worth.
FORT WORTH, Texas — Drivers who travel through Fort Worth’s panhandling hotspots will soon see a sign pointing them in a different direction, the city announced.
Fort Worth launched a pilot program to encourage residents to redirect any money they may pass to panhandlers to local nonprofits supporting the homeless community, the city said in a press release.
The city placed signs that read “It’s O.K. to say no to panhandlers” and urge drivers to visit an online site directing them to local nonprofits supporting the homeless community.
“Providing money or other assistance directly to panhandlers can perpetuate cycles of dependency and unsafe roadside interactions,” the release states. “Instead, Fort Worth residents are encouraged to donate to established organizations that promote the community-wide commitment to the goal of reducing homelessness.”
Some of the nonprofits listed include Center for Transforming Lives, DRC Solutions and Presbyterian Night Shelter, which provides housing and resources to the city’s homeless population.
Signs will be placed at intersections around the city for the next several months, the city said. Over the next 12 months, staff will monitor the impact of the signs, including monitoring visits to the online page and an increase or reduction of panhandling complaints where the signs are placed.
Residents can report panhandling through the MyFW app, calling the Fort Worth Police Department non-emergency line (817-392-4222) or texting 817-835-6939.
