)
In the past, there was a mitzva to give tzedaka (charity) when the agricultural gifts were not adequate to provide for a poor person’s basic needs. The same applies today, when it is impossible for the poor to survive based on agricultural gifts. Thus, it is a mitzva to give tzedaka to a needy person who lacks what the vast majority of the population would consider basic necessities. The obligation applies first and foremost to the deprived person’s family members. If they are unable or unwilling to help, it devolves upon his friends and neighbors. If they too are unable or unwilling to help, it devolves upon all residents of the city.
The more a recipient feels respected and less embarrassed, the better the tzedaka is. Therefore, the highest level of tzedaka is to help the poor find work, allowing them to support themselves and avoid asking for charity. This category also includes underwriting the poor’s education, thus allowing them to study a profession and support their family with dignity. The unfortunate who are unable to work, should be given tzedaka in a way that does not damage their pride. Giving anonymously is a good example of this, as recipients are not embarrassed when they do not know who gave them the money. Besides money, the mitzva of tzedaka can also be fulfilled by giving food, clothing, or furniture to help the poor and bring them joy.
