She’s not asking for food, shelter or work. She’s asking for money to pay for breast implants.

Chrissy, 37, of Rittman, who doesn’t want her last name used, stands near a blue bike on the corner of Manchester Road and Carnegie Avenue in Akron holding a sign that reads: “Not Homeless. Need Boobs.”

“I see people panhandling everyday, so why not panhandle for boobs. It’s original. I’ve never seen anybody else do it.” said Chrissy.

Chrissy, a University of Akron student and a single mother, said the income she receives working as a bartender helps pay for bills and her college education, but she needs extra help to pay for breast implants.

“Everyone that knows me, knows that I am a wild one.”

Honesty and creativity are the reasons why Chrissy believes she has made $50 in two hours while panhandling near the busy intersection.

Standing beside Chrissy for protection is her “bodyguard,” Steve Bernabe, 57, of Akron.

“She’s being honest. She’s not begging. She’s just trying to move on in her life and build herself up,” said Bernabe.

Bernabe said most motorists are supportive, honking their horns and requesting pictures. Some negative comments have come from older woman who give her the evil eye.

“He’s just making sure I’m OK because there is some negativity out there,” said Chrissy.

Tyesha Hercegovac, 27, of Ellet, snapped a picture of Chrissy for her husband before heading home.

“I think it’s kind of ridiculous, but kind of funny in a way,” said Hercegovac. “She wants her boobs. She’s keeping it real.”

Hercegovac admits she doesn’t think it’s appropriate for children to view Chrissy’s unique approach to panhandling. She said it would be hard to explain to her young son.

“I would cover his eyes. I mean, that’s all I could do,” said Hercegovac.Chrissy plans to panhandle near the intersection until she reaches her goal of around $4,000. 

ANN REPORTS chrissy the panhandler by Edward Esposito