Many non-profit groups do good work and are worthy of your support. These agencies depend on public contributions and government funds to deliver services. Political advocacy organizations help by voicing concerns to congressmen and other public officials, lobbying to provide better resources for the very poor. These groups often work with grassroots actions and groups concerned with poverty issues. Working together, we can influence our local, state and federal government to help those in need.
Some organizations even get the homeless involved in lobbying efforts.
Giving money to strangers is often not as effective as supporting organizations who help and advocate for the homeless.