Cup of tea or coffee, a chocolate bar or a bit of fruit perhaps?
To be fair, most people in need are respectful and polite. If he showed that attitude to the wrong person he might get a roof over his head for a few days albeit in a lot of pain.
I gave 50p to a beggar or 'homeless' man a couple of weeks ago. All he said to me instead of thanks was "Is that all you can afford? You tight c**t".
I nearly asked for it back. If I'd walked past he'd have said nothing. That's gratitude. :rant: