762e76f94d868210VgnVCM100000e56411acRCRDapproved/thenational/Articles/Migration/2009-Q3A helping hand, not a handout, needed662e76f94d868210VgnVCM100000e56411ac____As authorities, particularly in the capital and Dubai, brace for an influx of beggars during the Ramadan season, the tension between protecting society and caring for its poorest members demands a solution.<p>Most people will have encountered the practised mendicant: the deferential approach, the seemingly plausible hard-luck story, followed by the inevitable touch. There is undoubtedly a category of unsavoury, low-level grifters who attempt to manipulate the finer sentiments of others for financial gain. The danger, however, is not the loss of a few dirhams, but that people in genuine need will be overlooked as a result.</p> <p>As authorities, particularly in the capital and Dubai, brace for an influx of beggars during the Ramadan season, the tension between protecting society and caring for its poorest members demands a solution. The sad fact is that the spirit of giving during the Holy Month can attract those who seek to take advantage of the philanthropy of others. Policing is only part of the solution. Last year at this time authorities announced a hotline for the public to report beggars; that hotline is probably needed given the egregious and sometimes hostile behaviour on the streets, but there is a greater need for another hotline to provide assistance to people who have nowhere else to turn. Ramadan is the month of charity, as attested by the numerous Iftar tents that bedeck the nation, and there is little doubt that given the opportunity, generosity would win the day.</p> <p>Particularly during economic hard times, more needs to be done to help those caught in unfortunate circumstances, not just during Ramadan but the entire year round. Whether in the form of food kitchens, medical care or simply social advocacy, a modicum of assistance can literally save lives. The Red Crescent has in some cases provided a sterling example, organising relief for lorry drivers stuck on the Saudi border and aid missions abroad, particularly during the siege of Gaza earlier this year. It is now time for Government, charitable organisations and the private sector to turn those same sort of efforts inward.</p> <p>Police report that the numbers of beggars on the streets is increasing. This is a social blight, caused in part by increased criminal mendicancy, but also by people in real distress. The former category of career beggars should be dealt with by the law. For people who have contributed to society but fallen on hard times, not the handcuffs but a helping hand is in order.</p> 84YYOPINION2009072900000020090729000000100ARhttp://adedit.ad.atl.publicus.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20090729/OPINION/707289910570728991020090729100000000