Recipients of zakat and ‘ushr

Question

(1) May Muslims affected by riots be helped with zakat and ‘ushr (tithe) money or not? (2) If I take an orphan child into my care and also have him serve me, may I provide such a child with clothing and medical treatment from zakat, ‘ushr and similar money or not?

Answer

(1) Zakat money must be transferred into ownership (tamlik): it should be given, by way of ownership, to those who are entitled to zakat, and then they may spend it wherever they wish. Or necessary goods may be bought with this money and given to them. Do not spend it in a way that it does not become their property.

Source: Fatawa Mahmudiyya

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