I live in Southern California as does Nate and am often asked for money from both men and women on the street. I offer them untouched food from a restaurant and am often turned down. It is a bit confusing when the person asking is smoking a cigarette (which I believe sell for around $8 per pack) or using their cell phone. I will continue to offer food instead of money but there have been times when I will put a $20 bill in the package of food especially if they accept the food without hesitation.