here's how to handle the panhandlers... soon as they make any move  towards you..walk right up (check out the dog first)  "i am SO glad to meet you (reach out to shake their hand (they usually respond in like, because they are stunned) . " jeez, i still need $100 bucks for rent - we are SO scr*wed -they're gonna take away our home and i haven't had milk for the babies in DAYS!  How about a $20..gotta 20?  a ten?  a five?  come on man.   not even a buck?..." they have walked away at this point... with me calling out "thank you.." if they've given anything or not. once in a while.." i'll give you $5 for the dog."
 i have a strategy for unwanted phone calls as well.....