“And sending portions to one another, and gifts to the poor”
One of the most beloved Purim traditions is Mishloach Manot, the sending of food gifts to friends and family. According to this tradition, each person sends at least two portions of food to at least one other person, with the beautiful goal of strengthening friendship and connection in our communities.
As meaningful as this tradition is, it can come with a hefty price tag. Our circles of friends, family, neighbors, and colleagues can grow quickly, and before we know it, so can our Purim budget. The gift-giving often starts at school, where children prepare baskets for classmates, and continues with deliveries to neighbors, relatives, and colleagues.
So how can we honor this tradition, bring joy to the people we love, and still keep our finances in check? Here are some practical and creative ideas:
Make your own instead of buying ready-made. Pre-assembled gift baskets always cost more than buying individual items yourself. When you build your own, you save on labor and packaging costs, and you can take advantage of sales and promotions.
Shop smart for treats. There are always great deals available. Look for budget-friendly packages and promotions on items that are already reasonably priced.
Bake it yourself. Homemade cookies, cakes, and Hamantaschen are almost always tastier and more economical than store-bought. You control the ingredients and the quantities, and the personal touch makes them extra special.
Pass it on. Received a large gift basket? Consider passing some items along as part of a new arrangement, either as a complete basket or broken down into smaller gifts.
Beautiful packaging on a budget. Save boxes and decorative bags throughout the year for moments like this. No saved packaging? A simple disposable plate, some cellophane wrap, and a ribbon will do the trick beautifully.
Think creatively. A thoughtful, original idea can bring just as much joy as an expensive basket, sometimes even more.
Size matters visually. To make your basket look fuller and more impressive, include bulkier items like snack bags, canned goods, or a boxed cake.
Agree to simplify with your circle of friends and family. Some families and communities choose to skip reciprocal sending among close friends or neighbors, or organize a gift exchange so each person sends to just one other person. There is real wisdom in this kind of intentional decision.
Give to those who truly need it. Consider directing your Mishloach Manot, or at least a portion of your budget, to people experiencing hardship. This way you fulfill the tradition with even greater meaning. Focus on practical items like canned goods, dry goods, and pantry staples.
Put your savings to work. Every shekel you saved in your preparations is an opportunity to give more to someone who truly needs it.
Looking for a way to help? Paamonim volunteers are always ready to serve as your messengers for gifts to those in need.
Help us help those in need
Wishing everyone a joyful, meaningful, and financially smart Purim!
