Financially Helping People In This Community

I’ve sent money to people who posted in this Subreddit because they’re on the verge of homelessness, become homeless, or are in dire financial distress. I was able to keep in touch with them via text.

One particular member of this group going by the name of “Brian” had gotten hundreds of dollars from me, leaving me to believe that I was assisting him in getting a hotel while he got cleaned. He had been laid off, ostensibly because of his addiction. Miraculously, he found a well paying job while going through withdrawals, but he needed Uber money to get to the airport for the interview. Done. He then needed money for toiletries and travel while traveling to the interview. Done.

I let my spouse know that I was financially assisting a fellow addict get on their feet. They were skeptical but allowed me to continue to assist. After so many times of me sending them money, my spouse had me bait this “Brian” into a scenario where I would be in a situation where I needed money. “Brian” initially asked me for gas money when I made a request, but stated they could send me $150 the next day when they got their check. “Brian” even texted me late that evening stating he would send money around 5 AM when their direct deposit was in their account. I was totally ghosted.

Being the stupid person that I am, I checked in on “Brian” several times over the following weeks, but nothing. Not even an excuse or proof of life.

The moral of the story is this, if you want to help members of this community, financially, then be cautious. At best, you may be helping a real person. At worst, you are helping a conman who prey’s on the sympathies of a community that tries to help each other out.

You may actually be buying the poison that fuels their addiction.

Just beware. I know there’s good people here, who want to help. Don’t be a victim.