A Special Mitzvah for Purim: Helping the Hungry, Spreading the Joy

Observe these as days of feasting and merrymaking, for delivering portions of food to one another and gifts to the poor.

- ESTHER 9:22

In the book Maddi’s Fridge, written by Lois Brandt and illustrated by Vin Vogel, Sofia learns that her friend Maddi is experiencing food insecurity at home. Maddi begs Sofia to keep her empty cabinets and fridge a secret. The question of when is it right to reveal a secret is a key element of the Purim story, and like Queen Esther in that story, Sofia has to make a difficult choice. Fortunately, Maddi’s Fridge, like Esther’s story, has a happy ending.

Maddi's Fridge book cover

There are four traditional mitzvot, or commandments, that appear at the end of the biblical Book of Esther and guide us through the holiday of Purim. One of these is matanot la’evyonim, gifts of money or food to those who are hungry. On Purim, we want to make sure that everyone in the community can experience the fun of this holiday. (Our joy is not complete unless we’ve helped others feel joy, too.)

When a community cares for everyone with respect and dignity, none of us needs to go hungry. Giving to others respectfully can be tricky, as Sofia intuitively understands. When Sofia learns that Maddi’s family doesn’t have enough food, it doesn’t change her opinion of Maddi. Maddi is embarrassed by her empty fridge, but what’s important to Sofia is that Maddi is a great playmate, a talented climber, and a loyal friend. Our worth is not measured by the things we have.

Maddi’s situation is not unusual, unfortunately. Millions of children do not get enough food at home to eat. Here are some easy ways that a family can fulfill the mitzvah of matanot la’evyonim this Purim:

Give Tzedakah

One of the key reasons Jews give tzedakah, is to increase tzedek (justice), in the world. On Purim, tzedakah might take the form of a donation to a charity focused on feeding people, for instance. It’s a way to increase justice—and reduce hunger. Of course, contributing to any good cause is a great opportunity to share our Purim joy.

This mitzvah is so central to the holiday that even people who don’t have a lot of money are expected to give some tzedakah. The medieval philosopher Maimonides taught that one should give away at least as much money in tzedakah as one spends on a festive meal.

Donate to a Food Pantry or Community Fridge

Another way you and your family can take action is by donating to a local food bank or community fridge. You can reach out to them to find out what is needed most. (Pop-top cans and shelf-stable milk are always good items to donate). Leading up to Purim, each time your family goes grocery shopping, pick up a few things. (Keep an eye out for sales and buy-one-get-one promotions — you might be able to give a little bit more.) When you’ve filled up a bag with food, drop it at the pantry. While you’re there, ask about other ways to help out.

Get Involved

Write letters to your local council members, politicians, or community leaders to support initiatives to fight hunger.

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