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Tampa panhandlers say ban could trigger crime and homelessness

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By Tia Mitchell, Times Staff Writer
Friday, January 21, 2011

TAMPA — It was Mother Nature and steady downpours that hampered panhandlers' efforts to collect cash on Friday.

But many said they were aware that another force, the Tampa City Council, was considering a proposal that could restrict them from collecting money rain or shine.

Joshua Atkins stood in a median on Florida Avenue at Busch Boulevard, holding up a soggy sign and accepting anything that motorists offered.

He wasn't surprised that the council wants to restrict panhandling, but he predicted devastating consequences.

"I would be homeless without one penny coming into my name at all," he said. "By the grace of the people of the city of Tampa, I'm able to survive."

He looks for work everyday, he said, but can't find anything. Panhandling keeps a roof over his head.

The St. Petersburg Times spoke to street ...


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