The festival of Purim commemorates the salvation of the Jewish people in ancient Persia from Haman’s plot “to destroy, kill and annihilate all the Jews, young and old, infants and women, in a single day.” It is celebrated with Megillah readings, gifts of food, charity, feasting, and merriment.

With Purim just around the corner, we take this opportunity to remind you that one of the main observances of this festive holiday, dating back to the very first Purim, is that of <em>“Matonot L’evyonim” –</em> extending alms to the needy among us.