My father needs financial help, after being in a number of brain surgery procedures, he is 71 and
with meager earnings. and
no savings.
Can I use Ma’aser money to help him out get through this challening time.
I am myself self B”H
able to pay my bills for the last 2 months. after being unemployed for 2.5 years.
Answer:
One’s father has preference over others in receiving Tzedaka funds. If one can afford to support his father without using Maaser funds, he should do so. If not, he may and should support his father from his Maaser funds.
Sources:
See Shulchan Aruch Y:D 251:3, 240:5, Shach 251:5. See also Shu”t Chasam Sofer Y:D 229
