Recently a locally-new form of what is said to effectively be panhandling has turned up in some of the cityâs more frequented parking lots.
At least one woman carrying a collection of roses approaches visitors both inside and outside of vehicles, initially handing out a flower to anyone willing to accept. After the flower is taken a donation is requested to help what is said to be a sick relative in need of surgery.
Though I have no means to verify the authenticity of that claim, when asked about the topic a Brandon Police spokesperson told me that the approaching of strangers for money amounts to a form of panhandling. According to Police panhandling in itself is not illegal, however private property owners may choose to ask an individual partaking to leave the property. The spokesperson advised that BPS does not recommend giving money to strangers since it may encourage them to further request money from others, continuing the behaviour. If approached by someone requesting money BPS recommends that one remain courteous and continue walking.
Though the form of soliciting seems to be fairly new to Brandon, the idea of a rose as an icebreaker with strangers in attempts to request money is quite common in larger tourist centres where those offering can become at times aggressive in their pursuit. A more detailed account appeared in St. John's, Newfoundland newspaper 'The Telegram' last month of a similar undertaking in that city in which the money demand was described as aggressive. Thereâs been no indication of that kind of aggression locally and Police say theyâve received no reports in connection with whatâs been described. If however the behaviour of someone engaged in panhandling becomes aggressive or intimidating theyâre asked to report to Brandon Police Service at 204-729-2345.