Hi gavra-at-work.
I know you didnt mean anything personal and I apologize if my tone came across harsh.
While you dont have to apologize, I will say I accept just so the slate is cleared, just in case. Otherwise, know I understand we are merely discussing a topic and our differences are in no way personal.
I commend you for keeping a grasp of this complex posting between us. It IS complex, and both of us are respecting the understanding we have from our respective rebbes.
Simply, I seriously did hear from a well-known rabbi that when we give tzedaka, regardless of the details of the person asking, you get the schar for giving. He went on to say that in many ways they are doing us a favor by collecting because giving a few dollars is a true life insurance policy. Of course, I am paraphrasing and he was not speaking lightly on the subject.
In fact, he went on to say even if a non-Jew asks you for tzedakaa, you should give for pretty much the same reason.
I dont know if you would chalk my understanding up to daas torah, but I will, b’lee neder, try to find a way to get a proof for his statement where I dont come across like I am challenging what he said just out of the blue.
Peace, and have a great Shabbos!