The other day I was walking on PCH in Laguna Beach and I saw the above meter against a wall. Upon further investigation I realized it was part of a program the local businesses and residents have implemented to stop panhandling in the city. As I thought more about it, I realized that it has been a while since I have been approached for change when walking the downtown area. I am not opposed to helping those in need, but panhandling can get a little annoying, especially when they don’t believe that you don’t have any change. I have been challenged more than once, and most of the time I don’t, living off the debit card.
The program was launched last July and there are five parking meters that have been individually painted by local artists around the downtown area. The money goes to the Laguna Resource Center, which provides assistance to the homeless, as well as low income families.
I personally think this is a great way to go about it, and it gives a passerby the option to donate, and the homeless person an option to receive assistance if they want it.

For more information go to change4homeless.com