Tzedakah to Parents or to a Fund for Those Who Toil in Torah

Shalom u’vrachah,

I live in my parents’ home. My father is an avrech and my mother is a teacher. I work at a small job and set aside ma’aser kesafim in the amount of approximately NIS 300 per month. Usually, I give my ma’aser money to my parents, because I want to participate somewhat in the household expenses of the home where I live, and also because my father learns Torah.

Following the fundraising campaign for Keren Olam HaTorah, a question arose for me: Is it preferable to continue giving my ma’aser money to my parents, or to give it to Keren Olam HaTorah?

What is more correct from a halachic standpoint, and what does the Rabbi recommend doing?

Thank you very much, and gmar chatimah tovah.

Shalom u’vrachah 

If your father needs the money and does not have enough to make it through the month, he takes precedence over everyone. This also constitutes supporting Torah, honoring parents, and showing gratitude. 

If he has enough for his expenses, he may not receive tzedakah, and the money that you want to give in order to participate in the household expenses should be given from your salary itself. 

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