Anti-Panhandling Signs Go Up in New Bedford

The City of New Bedford has begun installing signs at key intersections in an effort to discourage drivers from giving money to panhandlers.

The first sign was posted Tuesday at Route 140 and Route 6. It reads, "Contribute to the solution. Change the way you give. Donate to www.riseupforhomes.com."

The signs were first suggested by Ward Three City Councilor Hugh Dunn in July 2017.

"I don't think everybody realizes that sometimes giving money to panhandlers isn't the right solution, and really we should be putting our money toward the service providers that can help these people find their way out of situations that they've encountered," said Dunn.

Dunn says the signs will be located at six or seven locations around the city.

Mayor Jon Mitchell says the new signs are part of the City's ongoing effort to ensure the safety of motorists and pedestrians at highway intersections.