WASHINGTON (AP) - As Western society continues its shift towards cashless transactions, many charitable organizations and advocates for the unhoused are facing challenges in receiving donations. However, technological advancements are now offering solutions to reach those most in danger of being left behind in a financial system that relies less on physical currency.

John Littlejohn, a former homeless individual who remembers when spare change was more readily available, has noticed a significant decline in people carrying cash. Well-meaning individuals who want to help are often apologetic, patting their pockets, and unable to offer any assistance. "I would be out here for six or seven hours and wouldn't get more than $12 to $15," Littlejohn shared. "People are like, 'I don't leave the house with cash.'"

Nevertheless, with the advent of technology, charitable groups are finding innovative ways to bridge the gap between potential donors and those in need. Street Sense, a local paper that covers issues related to the homeless and employs unhoused individuals as vendors, has introduced a special phone application that allows people to purchase an electronic copy while ensuring the profits go directly to the vendors. Littlejohn himself has benefited from this advancement and now has his own apartment, supported by his income from Street Sense and other side gigs, along with Social Security.

Over the past two decades, society has witnessed a significant decline in cash transactions, starting with the prevalence of credit card usage for everyday purchases, even as minimal as a cup of coffee. With the rapid advancement of smartphone technology, cash-free payments have become the norm for many.

This societal shift has greatly impacted street-level charitable giving, from individual donations to panhandlers and street musicians to traditional red Salvation Army donation kettles found outside grocery stores. Sylvester Harris, a 54-year-old Washington native who panhandles near Capital One Arena, expressed how difficult it has become for the unhoused to receive assistance. "Everybody just has cards or their phones now," he said. "You can tell the ones who really do want to help you, but even they just don't have cash anymore."

The shift to a cashless world poses particular challenges for the unhoused population. While electronic payment apps such as PayPal and Venmo have become ubiquitous, many options require prerequisites that are beyond the reach of the unhoused, such as credit cards, bank accounts, identification documents, or fixed mailing addresses.

Charitable organizations have been grappling with ways to adapt to this changing landscape. The Salvation Army, for instance, has developed a system wherein donors can simply tap their phones on the donation kettle and make direct payments, bypassing the need for physical cash.

The push towards a cashless society presents both opportunities and challenges. While it may limit the ability for individuals to provide immediate assistance to those in need, technological advancements are providing new ways for charitable organizations to reach out and support those who are most vulnerable. As the world continues to evolve, finding inclusive solutions to ensure no one is left behind will remain crucial.