Yes, I live in Paris and it said beggars can make up to 30€ a day on certain locations. Moreover they have access to bare necessities like food, clothes, free street clinics and sheltering during winter. Some beggars aren't homeless either.

Every cent given to street beggars goes for their comfort, not their survival. I'm not implying that is a bad thing, just don't think you've saved a person by giving them some quids.