Capital Crossroads Special Improvement District utilizes a three-pronged approach to address panhandling downtown. The three components include education, outreach and enforcement. What strategy is used depends on the panhandlers’ actions. If someone is aggressively panhandling, we will contact the Division of Police for assistance. When someone is truly in need of services, we will connect them with our outreach specialist. If an individual is simply panhandling to feed an addiction, we discourage people from giving to them through our education.

“Wise Up” Columbus is Crossroads’ educational campaign that aims to dispel myths often associated with panhandlers and encourages people to give to organizations that are committed to helping people get off the street.

• 1. Provide an individual with the Columbus Coalition for the Homeless Streetcard, material that describes the numerous service providers in the community and their contact information.
• 2. Give to organizations that truly help people get off the street. Download PDF
• 3. Contact Capital Crossroads’ customer service hotline number, 228-5718, and request assistance for the individual.