In my book "we," being society, shouldn't be forced to meet any wants, or needs. If you choose to help others, help them how you see fit. If you want a homeless man to have a drink and a smoke, take him out to a bar, buy him a beer, and let him bum some cigarettes. If you want him to have a decent meal, volunteer at a food pantry. If you want to donate a third of your earnings to make sure that no one in your neighborhood ever has to deal with single ply toilet paper again, more power to you.
Been there, done that.
It's called the "Dark Ages" in Europe.
When the stars threw down their spears
And watered heaven with their tears:
Did he smile his work to see?
Did he who made the lamb make thee?