Community Magazine February 2021

SHEVAT - ADAR 5781 / FEBRUARY 2021 33 MATANOT LA’EVYONIM - GIFTS TO THE NEEDY How much do I give? The mitsvah is to give to at least two poor people. Some say one can give each poor person a perutah , a small amount. Others say one should give enough to buy a meal, which could range between five and twenty dollars. In practice, one should give the preferred amount for at least the first two poor people. To any additional poor people, one may give as he wishes - the more the better.  To whom should I give the money? One fulfills his obligation of matanot la’evyonim by giving poor people  that struggle financially with basic needs. This can be done easily by giving the appropriate amount to trusted people or organizations collecting on behalf of the poor. Can I send the money before Purim? Yes, so as long as the money is received by the poor person on the actual day of Purim. DAY OF SALVATION How Should I Spend My Free Time on Purim? Purim is an exceptional day for giving tsedakah , increasing friendships, praying, and Torah study. On Purim the law is that “whoever extends his hand for charity, we should give and provide. ” That is to say, throughout the year we should check the credentials of one asking for charity; whereas on Purim, a day of giving, we should give to all poor people who stretch out their hand. This is true in regard to prayers as well - whoever stretches out his hand to Hashem, He will provide. There are many remarkable stories of salvation for those who prayed sincerely on Purim. Let us use this special day to give and to pray, and may all our prayers be answered speedily. Amen .  For more information please visit www.ohrhalacha.org FRIEDA SCHWEKY New Jersey Based Photographer Jersey Shore area, Deal, Lake Wood, Brooklyn, Manhattan. Event and portrait photography Available for Simchot of all kids! Portraits for: couples, maternity, family photoshoots, cake smash, Headshots, Pre-wedding shoots, proposals, and much more! Great with children and large crowd s Personable, Professional, talented, and fun! Frieda@sephardic.org 718-664-4156 @photos_by_Frieda