Would you help someone?

I probably would of offered to pay too if I found out if the family is starving. But most times, people steal to get drugs. I don't understand why people steal on Christmas Eve. I like to help people in anyway I can but I would probably helped him find a soup kitchen or some other place.

You saw only one instance of what the thief had done or was even mentioned to you. Perhaps if you had asked further, you might have found out that this person had been in trouble with the law before. Maybe even many times before, making them a career criminal. Something this person might not disclose to you himself. Just because they claim to be stealing to feed their family doesn't always make it so. If he truly wanted to feed his family, then he should have taken them to a mission where they feed the poor, and homeless. They would have then set him up with connections to go get free food boxes. These organizations are set up so that one doesn't have to steal their next meal or meals for their families. And those organizations are common knowledge to everyone living in this (USA) country. So knowing this, ask yourself why he would rather steal than to feed his family through a charitable way.

Although you have a good heart (and I do as well) but one must always be aware that those type of people will prey on the goodness of others, only thinking and caring about themselves.

I give to the ones who hold signs on the street corners, or "beg" for something to do in exchange for money, or food. Even then I give without wanting anything in return. Not to the ones who would steal.

I would not offer to pay on Christmas Eve or any other day. I wonder if it was a random Monday night if you'd feel differently. People will say anything when they get caught breaking the law. There are food stamps available, food banks and soup kitchens - I volunteer at one. There are proper ways to feed your family and not commit crimes.

This person may not have been stealing the meat to take to his family. Crack addicts will steal and trade anything for a hit. Things are not always as they appear. I have a soft heart too. but you have to be very Careful and know the tricks of the trade.

Firstly, I would have to ask you how you knew this to be the case (the reason he was stealing). Also, if the family wasn't starving, no, I would not help the fellow. Christmas doesn't give people an excuse to ignore the law. My single mother worked hard for our Christmas meals, and this guy gets his dinner free? No.

I think you did all you could do.