TZEDAKAH

Giving charity is an obligation that is commanded (a mitzvah) in the Torah to help those less fortunate. The word Tzedakah means justice and righteousness.  

A poem about Tzedakah

The Torah teaches everyone that is only fair,

For someone who has plenty to be a mensch and share.

Whether clothing, food or toys, Tzedakah coins or more.

Sharing helps those who have less feel better than before.

Jews from all around the world should lend a helping hand,

When we share with others 

We are keeping God’s command.

Ask your child in what ways they think your family can make a difference for others. Some ideas to get them started: buying extra food for the food pantry; donating birthday or Chanukah presents to less fortunate children; visiting the elderly in nursing homes.

Related activities for your child

• Books about Tzedakah:
  Jumping Jenny, What Zeesie Saw on Delancy Street, Bagels for Benny
  Find these books on YouTube, order from PJ library or Amazon.
  
• Watch the video Get with the Giving from Shaboom. The children LOVE these videos and know the characters already. Watch>>
• Discuss as a family what you learned about why it is important to give.
• Make a tzedakah box out of a tissue box or even tennis ball can and each week on Shabbat put money in to be used in a way that the family all agrees on.