Tithing Funds for a Trip for Parents
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Question
I live in New York, and my parents are in Israel. They came to visit me in New York to travel, but they don't have the money to fund the trip. Can I fund it from my tithing money?
Answer
Shalom and blessings! You have the merit of honoring your parents, and it is evident that you greatly desire their well-being. The mitzvah of honoring one's father and mother is one of the most important commandments. However, there is no obligation to fund their trip, but if you can, it is a worthy and proper conduct, showing gratitude for all they have done for you.
However, tithing funds are intended for the needs of the poor, and a trip with parents is generally considered a luxury. Even considering the importance of the matter, it should not be done with tithing funds. Only if the trip is genuinely necessary for your parents for recovery and rest, and they have no means to fund it, and it is a minimal trip that does not exceed the standard level of living, it can be considered charity.
If it is indeed necessary, and you do not have the financial ability to fund it, it seems that half of the trip expenses can be taken from tithing funds, provided they do not exceed one-third of the total tithing funds.
And by honoring your father and mother, you will merit abundant blessings and success.