Priorities in Tzedakah

This sugya discusses priorities in Tzedakah. While the needs of Klal Yisrael are great, and the desire to give is part of the essence of every Jew, funds are limited and we must know how to prioritize our Tzedakah distribution.

This week’s Sugya discusses one’s primary obligation to assist a family member in need, before assisting others.  This includes supporting one’s son in Yeshiva/Kollel, or a parent who has limited funds due to retirement.

Among the questions discussed:

·       What is defined as family - siblings, close cousins, in-laws, ex-relatives?

·       How much is one obligated to give family members before giving others?

·       If one is supporting a relative in need (as the Halacha dictates) does this totally exempt him from giving Tzedakah to anyone else?

·       Do we prioritize material needs (clothing, housing, etc) for a family member over food for a non-family member?

·       If someone left a will stating that the inheritance be distributed to needy family members - who does this include?