Most legitimate beggars just fell through the cracks at some point in their lives. The ones that should not be begging perhaps make their lives even more difficult. Some view it as the equivelant of a job as well.

The wash your car window I have experienced in the Canadian big cities as well.Starting at least 20 years ago when I visit. I once got asked for money five times in one block. It was obvious what they were doing. With the last one I just said. I was about to ask you for change but you beat me to it.