Question:
Can I fulfill the mitzvah by sending money to an organization which provides food for the purim seuda for needy families, but the food usually gets delivered before purim?
Answer:
Hello,
In order to fulfill the mizva of Matanos L’evyonim, it has to be given to the poor person specifically during the daytime of Purim, not before. You can give to this organization, however you should give other money for Matanos Levyonim.
Best wishes
Sources:
רמ"א אורח חיים סימן תרצה סעיף ד' "הגה: ויש לשלוח מנות ביום ולא בלילה (מדברי הרא"ש פ"ק דמגילה)", וע' במשנה ברורה שם ס"ק כב "וה"ה מתנות לאביונים".
