Panhandling is one of the biggest deterrents to sidewalk traffic Downtown. To confront the issue of panhandling, DAP's Downtown Safety Ambassadors report instances of aggressive panhandling to the Akron Police Department. In cases of passive panhandling, ambassadors check for panhandling licenses and encourage panhandlers to move on.
DAP has developed a brochure in an effort to educate the public regarding new laws governing panhandling and offering alternative ways to give assistance to the homeless and hungry population in the City of Akron.
The trifold contains key points of the law and names and telephone numbers of social service agencies and Downtown meal sites as well as suggestions for those wanting to donate their time or dollars to helping those in need.
To request brochures, call Downtown Akron Partnership at 330-374-7676.
You may also call us to request copies of the Akron Street Card produced by Project R.I.S.E., VISTA and the Veterans Service Commission, which covers additional services available to those in need in the Greater Akron area.
The City of Akron has taken measures to eliminate aggressive panhandling throughout the city. Panhandling is protected by freedom of speech laws. Communities like Akron are attempting to regulate its abuses.
Panhandlers are now required to register with the city (at no cost), to wear city-issued identification when panhandling and to conform to an approved manner and place of solicitation.
