Tim:  I agree with the points you've made here.  There are many different causes of homelessness and poverty, and we, as a society, are not doing very well addressing any of them.  Indeed, during the Reagan administration funding for mental illness treatment facilities and programs was drastically reduced and tens of thousands of mentally ill individuals were, quite literally, kicked out of treatment facilities.  The VA is a nightmare, with tens of thousands of Vets on the streets waiting for care.  Simply banning panhandling will do nothing to address the many issues the homeless and impoverished face.  As you suggest.......we are the wealthiest nation in the world...can't we do just a little better...   regards, Gary