City Installs New Cashless Collection Boxes To Aid Homeless 

SARATOGA SPRINGS —Following an effort initiated in 2016, the first of six new collection boxes encouraging the public to contribute to local agencies who help those who are homeless, was installed Aug. 23.  

“Originally we had 12, but after they were installed in 2016, they got broken into because there was a slot for cash,” said city Public Safety Commissioner Tim Coll, who alongside city Finance Commissioner Minita Sanghvi jointly unveiled the new box located in front of Roohan Realty, at 519 Broadway. “We have six (of the 12) left that got refurbished. If it’s successful, it’s a pilot program, we’re going to add more.” 

The difference in the boxes this time around is the collection boxes will not accept cash. Instead, they sport QR codes – one directed to Shelters of Saratoga and the other to RISE Housing & Support Services – so the public can decide which local agency they want to support. The funds go directly to the non-profit agencies.  

The purpose of the boxes is to encourage the public to contribute directly to local agencies to help people get off the street and into safe housing. 

Each box sports a message that reads: “There’s a Better Way to Give…Don’t Encourage Panhandling,” a message developed with input and agreement from both local nonprofit agencies.

The Saratoga Springs City Council on Aug. 6 unanimously approved an agreement with the Downtown Special Assessment District to install the six collection boxes. 

The location of the six boxes are in front of: Roohan Realty, Compton’s Restaurant, Bluebird Spa City Motor Lodge, Uncommon Grounds, Saratoga Springs City Hall, and Impressions of Saratoga.