cherrybim -“You mean whether they will steal, rob or prostitute themselves; any other options for a drug addict?”
They can also go to the next unsuspecting guy and collect from him. You should not give this person money -it’s not your responsibility how the drug addicts acquires his drugs -only if you help him.
“So what would you say to the mother who collects money for her daughter’s addiction so that the daughter won’t have to sell herself?”
As far as giving the mother money (knowing that she is supporting a druggie) -no you should not.
“The Rambam says that if a fellow is used to the finer things in life and becomes poor, you are m’chuyiv to support him in the standard of his lifestyle; fine wines, steaks, Brooks Brothers and all.”
What exactly is the relevance of this Halacha to this case? He is just defining an Oni whom is allowed to collect Tzedaka.