To fulfill the mitzvah of Matanot L’evyonim on Purim, one must give charity to at least two poor people. This mitzvah can be fulfilled by giving either food or the monetary equivalent of the amount of food that is eaten at a regular meal. While much attention, time and money is expended on Mishloach Manot, our Sages tell us that it is more praiseworthy to spend more on giving charity than on the giving of Mishloach Manot.

Providing monetary support for the poor is probably the most important of all the mitzvot of Purim, yet it tends to be minimized. Any donation — no matter what amount — would be greatly appreciated. Many needy families in our community look forward to this day when they are provided some reprieve from the impossible and crushing financial burdens that overwhelm them on a daily basis.