There is great need in Thailand indeed. Even the dogs get into the spirit of begging. However, in absolute truth, you don't really see this a whole lot. Actually, there are more of these types of set ups around Midtown Mall in Saskatoon then I have seen in Pattaya. Most people work hard for the little money they get here. There are lots of restaurants, and street merchants who are more interested in an honest days work than in a borrowed days pay. And they are interested in the money so they can make it through today, not so they can save for tomorrow. Very different than North American culture to be sure.