True. But the situation just seemed so odd, that it almost had to be some type of set-up.

At one time I would have, but with sooo many scams now, I doubt I would today. There was a very sorry looking person that stood beneath a bridge at a stoplight in our area with the 'begging' sign.. I'd even given him money before. I later found out that he was seen leaving his 'post' walking up about a block and getting into a nice new Caddy.. this got out about him and he was later jumped and got a nice mud hole stomped in his heiney.

I feel like a total sap for falling for it and giving out money (more than once, actually).

Yeh a loaf of bread some lunch meat and a bottle of juice wouldn't hurt anyone to give that much just so the kids could eat

It's become a sad world when you don't know what to do because of so many scammers. I'd have been somewhat flummoxed and not sure what I'd have done, either. No matter. That lady, if for real, will somehow be provided for, so I hope you don't live with regret about it. And, if you felt something was amiss, you are likely correct.

Knowing this, I may have reacted just as you did, as I do follow my instincts.

Just like most of the folks here, I'm usually a sucker and will give out money and food. As much as I can. I can't explain why it is that yesterday I just said no and drove away.

You did what you thought was right. You had a bad vibe and it scared you off. I don't blame you.

People do use kids in scams. It tugs at your heart strings and can cause you to lower your defenses.

Yeah, I do think that is the lowest of low to use your kids for scams. I think one of the things that set me off is she said she didn't want any cash. She didn't even ask if I had some food I could give her. She only wanted me to go into the store and buy them some food.

Losing a little food would be a small price for me to pay if it was a scam, the thought of kids going hungry would have made me take a chance, I would have a hard time sleeping if I thought it was legit and I didnt help!!!!

I wouldn't have been worried about losing money or food. I'd have been worried about putting myself in danger.

If I had the cash I would have bought what they needed.

Im not sure what kind of danger buying food for kids would entail, maybe them sleeping too soundly cause they had full tummies?

There are food shelves and shelters that SPECIALIZE in helping the less fortunate. I feel that: 1) if this woman were in such dire straits she would go there; 2) the community as a whole would be much better served by me donating money to a food shelf, where there is no question as to motive.

I have been literally homeless, lived in my car. I have never asked for food, but it was my pride. As a mother I can see where she was coming from. Her not asking for "money" but rather for food, would have made me give her a little something if I could. There is no right or wrong answer here, everyone has their own opinion and right to do things.

i think you made the right choice by saying no because while you were in the store,she could have easily stolen your car

If you felt something was not right with the situation, you did the right thing.

There are places people in need can go for food and shelter.

My first instinct would have been to hand her my groceries. But, you probably did the right thing. I'm pretty sure just about everywhere has a food pantry.

You weren't there. You aren't her. She assessed the situation and it bothered her.

I've been asked for help at a grocery store and then been robbed at gunpoint for my efforts. It happens. So, I personally wouldn't judge her harshly for it.

I would without hesitation bought them some food.