It’s a controversy that has flared from time to time over the past few years – concerns about unauthorized people selling Real Change News and causing trouble while doing it. The organization shared with us this announcement about an upcoming meeting to discuss where the situation stands:
Thank you all for your continued support of Real Change News. Last year we contacted you all about few individuals in your community who have misrepresented themselves as Real Change vendors. We have continued to build a relationship with West Seattle business owners and police to address this problem.
Again, these individuals are not authorized to sell the paper due to noncompliance with our Code of Conduct, which requires that vendors show respect to store owners and customers and refrain from drinking or drug use while selling the paper. We are anticipating a rise in activity with the upcoming summer months, and would like to gather together to answer any questions that community and business members may have.
Please join us at the High Point Library (3411 SW Raymond Street) on Monday, June 3 at 6:30pm for a community discussion.
The announcement continues after the jump – with Real Change’s own suggestions for helping curb the problem:
We believe that together we can end the problems associated with these individuals. Some of the tips we’ve been giving community members:
* Purchase the paper from vendors with badges only. Please only purchase the paper from vendors displaying a Real Change badge with the current year printed on it. If a vendor is not wearing a badge, please ask to see one. The current 2013 badge is orange.
* Support your badged vendors. Please continue to support authorized Real Change vendors and let them know their presence is appreciated. They appreciate and deserve your support!
* If you have an incident with someone who may be a Real Change vendor, please contact Vendor Services Program Coordinator Magan Do at (206) 441-3247 ext. 206.
* Please call the police immediately if you witness any illegal activity.
Thank you for helping us provide opportunity and a voice to Seattle’s poor and homeless.
| 43 COMMENTS