While many cities are concerned with the human and economic impacts of panhandling, scarce research has gathered information directly from those who panhandle. Researchers at the Indiana University Public Policy Institute partnered with the Coalition for Homelessness Intervention and Prevention, and Downtown Indy, Inc. for a pilot study to better understand those who panhandle.
Outreach staff for homeless service providers took to the streets of downtown Indianapolis on three separate days in June 2017, August 2017, and December 2017 during lunch and after-work hours. Of the 73 individuals approached who were panhandling, 49 agreed to participate in the survey. The findings are reflective of the self-reported information from those individuals and provide a better look who is panhandling in Downtown Indianapolis.