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Cashless Society Leaves Street Performers Struggling for Donations

11/23/2025

43 9 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

In a cashless society, digital payments simplify transactions for affluent Americans, with 60% of those earning over $100,000 using cashless methods weekly.
This shift poses challenges for cash reliance, such as street performers and vendors in New York.
Rob Brender, a disabled panhandler, struggles to collect donations as fewer people carry cash.
He has tried Venmo, which illustrates the economic divide caused by cashless moves.

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Story summary

In a cashless society, digital payments simplify transactions for affluent Americans, with 60% of those earning over $100,000 using cashless methods weekly.
This shift poses challenges for cash reliance, such as street performers and vendors in New York.
Rob Brender, a disabled panhandler, struggles to collect donations as fewer people carry cash.
He has tried Venmo, which illustrates the economic divide caused by cashless moves.