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In the past some people were so hungry that they might starve to death if someone did not give them money to buy a piece of bread. Therefore, the Sages directed us to give any beggar enough to buy a piece of bread – but not more, in order to discourage frauds from begging. However, in the State of Israel today, it is hard to argue that beggars are actually starving. Therefore, there is no longer a mitzva to give to everyone who asks. Rather, they should be referred to welfare services or charity distributors.
