If you have money to burn, then give it to anyone who asks for it. I, on the other hand, like to make sure that the money I donate goes to actually helping people in need and does not simply end up in the askers pocket. Any charity should be able to give you written proof of where the money they collect was spent and sent. Anyone can say they are collecting for a charity, but not everyone is actually using that money for good, and some only donate 5% to the actual charity and the rest goes to "administrative costs". Don't let yourself be suckered, and don't let good money that could be helping needy people get wasted!!