Some are professionals. But the Big Issue handers out have to buy the magazine and some take part in the writing and manufacture of it. I don't want to help any one particular centre but maybe if we all help one person, regardless ......... I don't give to UK Charity I would rather give directly to the person concerned, so much money goes into Company Cars, Conferences, Pension Plans that not as much goes to the Cause ......... and Charities, as they are now run as businesses, ought to be paying high street rates too but that's a different subject.
I was talking to a lady over the weekend who has worked in Northern Africa, directly with Tribal women helping them to out-source their jewellry. Money goes directly into the Tribe rather than via a Charity Bank Account or local arms trade. Funds can get there directly but I have been advised that buying a drink/bun is better than giving money in the UK, so that the person is nourished and doesn't spend it on drugs etc...