1. Should we stop ourselves from giving money to the homeless and destitute if we feel that the money will only be spent on buying alcohol?
If you feel that the man is destitute, really destitute, and he needs the money for food then you can. But if you are doubtful that he might go and spend the money on drinks or cigarettes, then don't give it to him. You will do him a favour by giving him money to spend on things that are not Halal, and which are harmful.
The decision is entirely at your discretion. Of course you can take him to a supermarket and buy him whatever he needs. But you have to ask yourself whether you have the time, and you also have to be wary of this person becoming difficult with extravagant requests. This does beg the wider question of what the Muslim community can do to help alleviate poverty as a whole.
We must remember that we ourselves as a community are in need of much help and support. We have not yet reached the stage where we can help others on a level other than that of individual contributions.
Having said that, there is noting wrong in supporting those charities and organisations which help the needy, but we should remember that the government is ultimately responsible for the care of those who are less well off.
(54 - Zakah 1)
2. Is a Muslim allowed to Sell Haram foodstuff to non-Muslims? I often get presents of Haram food from friends but I throw them away. Wouldn't it be better to give them to non-Muslims In need?
A Muslim is not allowed to sell Haram foodstuffs. There are many Ahadith in which the Prophet forbade Muslims to handle pork, wine or dead animals whether for Muslims or non-Muslims. You are allowed to give whatever comes into your possession freely to non-Muslims as they are allowed to consume these things. Such foodstuffs are considered wealth which can be acquired and used by them, and as such you are allowed to give them away for consumption, but not as charity.
Regarding a supplementary question of what constitutes Haram food, people must remember that we are living in a non-Muslim land where there are a multitude of things that we cannot eat because they contain animal fat or alcohol etc. Muslims, both purchasers and providers, must be very careful, but not over-zealous when choosing foodstuffs.
The best solution in cases where you are unsure of any particular ingredient is to immediately write to the manufacturers. Manufacturers tend to be very co-operative and helpful.
(12 - Foods 2)
