Question:
I have heard criticism about the Adopt-a-Kollel program that shuls in Chutz Laaretz should be focusing their tzedaka money on the needs of their own local poor as per “aniyei ircha kodmin”
Is this criticism valid? What are the mekoros? Thank you
Answer:
No, the poor of Eretz Yisrael have the status of the poor of your city “aniye ircha”. There are different opinions as to whether they are before or after the actual poor of your city in the order of preference. In any event, the preference to the poor of your city, relatives etc. means they have priority but not that they should receive all of your funds. One should diversify his tzeddaka and the Torah scholars of Eretz Yisrael should be considered a high priority.
Sources:
Shulchan Aruch Y:D 251:3, Bach and Shach ibid. s”k 6, See Tshuvos Vhanhagos 2:470 in the name of Peas Hashulchan.
Pischei Tshuva Y:D 249:2 in the name of the Chasam Sofer, Chochmas Adam 145:5,Aruch Hashulchan 251:4,5
