Panhandling is not an uncommon occurrence in the USC Community. While most panhandlers around USC are harmless, some commit petty crimes in the area or can be aggressive. To ensure the safety of our community, we ask that you say no when approached for spare change. If you feel threatened or harassed, please contact DPS.
Alternatives
If you’d like to help end homelessness in Los Angeles, there are other ways to apply your money and time. Local charitable organizations offer food, shelter, and other services to the homeless community. Consider donating money to their cause or volunteering to improve our community.
St. Mark’s Lutheran Church
St. Mark’s Lutheran Church offers a variety of volunteering opportunities. The church serves food to those in need twice a week, offers tutoring and preschool for local kids, and provides outreach to at-risk teenagers among other services.
USC Center for Service Programs
The USC Center for Service Programs is a student-run program that offers opportunities to volunteer in the immediate community. The Center also maintains an online database of service agencies that welcome USC students, staff, or faculty as volunteers.
