During the last few days of Ramadan, Muslims donate a certain amount of food, called Zakat al-Fitr (charity of breaking the fast), to the poor so that they may too break the fast and celebrate Eid. This donation is a duty that is required of all Muslims.
Zakat, or alms giving, in general is one of the five pillars of Islam, and all Muslims of means are obligated to contribute to their community. However, Zakat al-Fitr takes on extra significance as it is meant to represent gratitude to Allah for helping Muslims get through Ramadan’s fast. Moreover, wealthy Muslims are supposed to come into direct contact with those they are giving charity to during Eid.
