3,188. Priorities in Giving

Hilchos Matnos Aniyim 7:13

A needy relative takes priority over other needy people. The needy of one’s own household take priority over the needy of one’s city, who take priority over the needy of other cities. This is derived from Deuteronomy 15:11, which exhorts us to give charity to “your brother, the needy, and the poverty-stricken in your land.”

Hilchos Matnos Aniyim 7:14

If someone goes on a business trip and the people of the city he’s visiting impose a tax for charity on him, he gives it to the needy people of that city. If there are many people visiting that city and a charity obligation is imposed upon them, they must designate the funds for charity and give them to the needy of their own city when they return home. If there is a local Torah authority (in the city they’re visiting), they give him the money to distribute at his discretion.