INDIANAPOLIS -- An Indianapolis initiative unveiled on Thursday aims to combat the city's panhandling problem while simultaneously helping the needy.

Tamper-proof boxes will be installed where residents can give to agencies that reach out to people in need, rather than giving cash to panhandlers, 6News' Julie Pursley reported.

"The Boxes" as Mayor Greg Ballard's office calls them, will be placed strategically throughout the downtown area where panhandlers frequent over the next few days.

Mayor Greg Ballard hopes that the plan will discourage street begging and help keep homeless people off the streets.

Panhandlers are often seen on interstate off ramps, hitting up motorists as they drive by, and downtown, harassing passers-by. Many of them hold signs telling tales of woe and asking for donations.

The city hopes the secured metal boxes will encourage those who have compassion for the plight of the homeless and downtrodden will drop off donations, instead of dealing with individuals.

"The reason they stay out there is because we keep giving them money and giving them food," Ballard said. "We want them to come in and get the services they need. We need to stop giving them money, then they will come in."

Panhandlers are often scam artists and are not truly homeless. The Marion County Prosecutor's Office hopes the move will help them crack down on panhandlers.

"Having these sorts of aggressive panhandlers on the streets is making people, especially women, feel uncomfortable ... is no way for our wonderful city to continue to thrive," said Prosecutor Carl Brizzi.

The campaign opens with five boxes, with plans to expand if needed. The coalition for Homelessness Intervention and Prevention will help manage the donations and give them to agencies that help those in need.