KILLING with kindness is an expression usually associated with sentimental ballads.

It is after all almost impossible to imagine the reality of such a sentiment.

But the road to hell is paved with good intentions it’s said, and the city council’s latest initiative to persuade people to support homeless charities instead of homeless individuals certainly seems to support this maxim.

For as Nigel Northcott of the Porch Steppin’ Stone Centre – that provides day long support for the city’s homeless – says: “Giving money directly to beggars is no better than giving to drug dealers, for that’s where most of the money goes. Giving food and/or money to beggars reinforces that lifestyle.”

So yes, while it may sound – and feel – harsh to refuse the plea of someone begging, according to those individuals and charities who work directly with the homeless and therefore are best qualified to know, it might actually help save lives.