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There are four distinct Mitzvot to fulfill on the day of Purim. One has to hear the reading of the Megillah, give a food gift known as Mishloach Manot to a friend, partake of a festive meal or Seudah, and give monetary gifts to the poor, or what is known as Matanot L'evyonim.
The last mitzvah mentioned is different from the usual mitzvah of tzedakah that we have during the rest of the year. In fact, the Shulchan Aruch states (O.C. 694,3) that on Purim one must give to anyone who asks without question.
I will be helping the congregation in fulfilling this mitzvah by making sure that all donations collected until the day of Purim will be distributed on the actual day of Purim to those who are needy. It is one of the easiest mitzvot you will be able to do.
Just send in your donations to the Etz Chaim Benevolent Fund and I will handle the rest. I will be distributing funds to local needy families and to needy families in Israel.
Please remember to send in your contributions the latest by March 3.
Purim is more festive when we help those who are less fortunate. Thank you for your generous participation.
Rabbi Klibanoff
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