HIGH POINT, N.C. — You might notice these new signs popping up in High Point.
They're aimed at cutting down on panhandling at major intersections.
Greensboro has similar signs, but the new ones in High Point come with a different message.
The signs around Greensboro ask people to stay off the medians, especially those who are panhandling.
You can find them along busy streets to keep people and drivers safe.
Now, the city of High Point is taking a similar but different approach.
The High Point Mayor Pro-Tem, Michael Holmes, said it's a matter of public safety.
"We look at the issue of panhandling as a public safety issue, traffic safety, and also we look at the individuals who are panhandling," said Holmes. "We wanna make sure that we protect their safety as well. These signs are really awareness about the high-traffic areas, about where pan-handling is taking place, and just making people aware that there are better ways to give."
Right now, four signs are posted in High Point.
It reads, 'There's a better, safer way to give. Support local agencies that assist those in need.'
During this pilot program, the city will measure the effectiveness of the signs by watching these areas to see if it reduces the number of panhandlers, lowers traffic safety issues, and increases donations to organizations that help these individuals.
Holmes said he wants to avoid having people crossing busy streets to get money and that the city can help if that money is put towards the resources assisting people in need.
"People's hearts are big and so you see someone who's there and you want to help, but you may not think about the consequences of what could happen if you do that and so we just wanted to make folks aware of how to continue to help, but also to keep them safe as well," Holmes said.
High Point has several food pantries and shelters where you can donate.
Open Door Ministries operates a homeless shelter for men and serves daily meals.
Helping Hands is a food pantry that gives emergency financial assistance.
The United Way has many resources and programs to help people in need.
Holmes encourages people to give to these kinds of resources to make a difference and help those individuals needing financial help.
"Find an organization that is providing care, that is providing those resources directly in food and clothing and treatment and also shelter," said Holmes. "We believe that that is a better use of your dollars."
As for the city of Greensboro, they started putting signs up two years ago, and now there are more than 30 posted across the city.