Do You Help Those Who Ask For Money? [POLL]

I have a question, it may be a strange question to some, but I need your input if you are willing. When ever I come across someone on a corner, usually coming in and out of Walmart, holding up a sign asking for money, I always get a little uneasy. I don't really know why, but that uneasy feeling just hits me, and stays with me for the rest of the day.

Some would call people asking for money Beggars. Here is the definition of Begging from Wikipedia;

Begging is the practice of imploring others to grant a favor, often a gift of money, with little or no expectation of reciprocation. Beggars may be found in public places such as transport routes, urban parks, and near busy markets. Besides money, they may also ask for cigarettes or other small items.

I don't want to be, or consider myself, a cynical or a suspicious person, but I might be. I feel for these folks, so why do I "pick and choose" the ones I  give money or help too? Deep down do I believe they should be out looking for a job? Maybe I believe they will not use the money for shelter and food? Maybe, I'm just a terrible person?

That's my first dilemma. Now here's my second dilemma - I give money to some, but not to all. Why?

I know what my father would do, and does. He gives money, or a chance to work for him, or buys him something to eat. My father does this without explanations or questions.

I once asked my father why he does what he does. I asked him if he were thought that that money might not be used for food or whatever they needed, but it was used for drugs?

My fathers response:

Amy, I do what my heart leads me to do. If the person does with it, is up to to them and the Lord.

 

I realize that sounds so "goody, goody". But I wish I felt more like that. Why can't I?

What do you guys do? Should the homeless, out of work and down on their luck people do more to change their situation? There are many places to go for help. Should they turn there for help and support?