It is normal. There is some interesting discussion here and I agree that most... Almost all of the people do not desire to be in the situation there are in.
There is some discussion about giving money to the person vs giving to a charity. Whatever I choose to do, my rule of thumb is to do it with kindness. Sometimes I will give some chance to someone and chat with them. Sometimes I don't have chance/money to give them so I will say so but maybe introduce myself.
I heard the saying "the greatest lie that Americans believe is that they are much closer to being a millionaire when in reality they are much closer to being homeless." Most people are a paycheck or two away from homelessness.
There but for the grace of God go I.
Shit just got real.