The use of a Tzedakah (charity) box enables Jewish people to fulfill one of the commanded mitzvot (good deed). The literal meaning of the Hebrew word Tzedakah is "righteousness" or "justice". The practice of Tzedakah is commanded in the Torah. During biblical times, farmers would allow the poor to come onto their land and gather any dropped grains. Furthermore the farmers would contribute a tenth of their harvest to charity.

While the giving of Tzedakah is a regularly practiced act, it has a special place during the Jewish holiday rituals. For example, Tzedakah is given out for repentance at Yom Kippur. Similarly on Purim, gifts for the poor are given out, and on Passover "wheat money" is given so that everyone can enjoy mazot and the other symbolic foods used at the seder. One might find a Tzedakah box in a Jewish family's home, and often they are located in synagogues and Hebrew schools. It has now become customary for one to make a special contribution to a fund. In making such a contribution one celebrates their special blessings yet at the same time remembering those who are less fortunate.

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