‘Don’t give people money’ stickers cause outrage in Sherbrooke

Stickers popping up around Wellington Street in downtown Sherbrooke, Que., are causing outrage among residents, who say that their message lacks compassion for the city’s homeless population.

Noovo Info reports that the stickers, warning people not to give money to “anyone who asks” out of “respect for the neighbourhood,” recently appeared on dozens of lampposts.

Pictures of the stickered street lamps were posted on the Sherbrooke Spotted Facebook page, erupting in debate and strong reaction from commenters.

Additionally, another sticker added to the posts explains that giving money to people could lead to “criminal acts, drug use, violence,” and more.

It encourages residents to point individuals to organizations that could help them.

Following the outrage, the City of Sherbrooke says the stickers were quickly removed.

“We understand the feeling of insecurity and discontent with the growing problems, but we’re still disappointed by the confusion and stigmatization that comes from this kind of message,” said Gabriel Pallotta, coordinator of the Table d’itinérance de Sherbrooke.

He says the question society should be focusing on is “why do so many people need to beg for a living?”

Stéphane Duperron, who is unhoused, tells Noovo Info that he disagrees with the message conveyed by the stickers.

“If you give me a donation, I’ll be able to feed my dog or buy petrol, while someone else will be able to buy drugs,” he said. “There’s always a human being involved.”

He says people should react on a case-by-case basis.

“If one person feels generous enough to give, and another doesn’t, don’t do it,” Duperron said.

The City of Sherbrooke states that it is continuing efforts to support homeless individuals on its territory while also emphasizing that it would welcome financial assistance from the Quebec government.