I mean, supposing they are working age people - why would they choose to live in a tent and panhandle all day? It seems like it would be far more pleasant to work some sort of job and live in a normal home, and buy food at the grocery store. Even if the job isn’t particularly enjoyable, surely it is more pleasant and pays better per hour than standing in the hot sun on a dirty highway off-ramp?

Also, food is bulky and perishable. Money can easily be carried, and can be a meal a week from now as easily as it can be a meal today.