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Poverty related issues are becoming a larger problem due to the pandemic. Marshalltown has an ordinance against soliciting on roadways which prohibits individuals from standing near roadways for the purpose of seeking rides, employment, charitable donations or business from passersby.
Poverty is a rising issue across the country, and Marshalltown is no different.
Two natural disasters in less than three years and an ongoing pandemic have increased the number of people struggling to make ends meet.
According to data from the United States Census Bureau, about 11 percent of Iowans are living at or below the poverty line, and in Marshall County, the rate is 13 percent.
Unemployment rates in Iowa are low — 3.6 percent in October according to Iowa Workforce Development. But underemployment — people employed at less than full time or at a wage that doesn’t meet their economic needs — is a persistent issue. For some, it means seeking a second job or taking temporary positions.
For others, soliciting charitable donations in public spaces, sometimes referred to as “panhandling,” is what it takes to get by. They may hold a sign asking for financial help near the exit ramp of a highway or at a busy intersection. It’s more common in densely populated areas, but it happens in Marshalltown as well, albeit not as commonly. When it does happen, the community tends to help, according to city leaders.
The city has an ordinance against soliciting on roadways which prohibits individuals from standing near roadways for the purpose of seeking rides, employment, charitable donations or business from passersby.
“In the nine-plus years I have been in Marshalltown, I would be surprised if we’ve issued any citations,” said police chief Mike Tupper. “We certainly would not make a custodial arrest. If we receive a complaint, we will respond to make sure they are okay and do not need help. We do not receive many complaints about this.”
Even though soliciting is rare, poverty is becoming an even more apparent issue.
“I think poverty related issues are becoming a larger problem due to the pandemic,” Tupper said. “There are a variety of reasons someone might find themselves in these situations.”
When the police department does encounter a person soliciting, dealing with homelessness or food insecurity, they will often refer them to one of many organizations with a presence in Marshalltown. Some include Mid-Iowa Community Action, YSS of Marshall County, the Salvation Army, House of Compassion and the Emergency Food Box among others.
City administrator Jessica Kinser said that on rare occasions, she has been approached for money in the downtown area. She hasn’t noticed an increase in the occurrence, however.
“I have seen some tremendous acts of kindness- people in cars stopping to give people money who look like they need help without anyone asking.” she said.
Tupper shared Kinser’s sentiment.
“The good people of Marshalltown already have the right approach. They look for ways to help the person, and they do not automatically call the police,” he said. “I have watched people get out and talk to people and provide what assistance they can personally.”
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Contact Joe Fisher at
news@timesrepublican.com.
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