Is it permissible for the Islamic centers to replace food-giving by the end of Ramadan, which is known as Zakat Al-Fitr, with the collection of an equal sum of money from members of the community? These centers conclude deals with some supermarkets to issue cards or coupons to be offered to the poor and the needy by which they can get the food they need from the supermarket at the time they want without having to pay anything.

This is a practical way of solving the problem by combining the two opinions reported on this issue. On the one hand, it keeps the principle of using the yield of Zakat in providing the needy with food (the opinion upheld by the majority of jurists). On the other hand, this idea makes it easier for the poor to choose the types of foods they need at the time they want instead of accumulating some unneeded types of food which might be difficult to preserve and store. This way, the poor is provided with such coupons that enable them to buy types of food where and when they like. In the meantime, this idea enables Muslims to pay Zakat in the form of food, which the majority of scholars recommend. Consequently, the main goal of such type of Zakat is achieved in the best way. If the goal of the Legislator is known, people should follow the perfect way to attain it. Allah Almighty knows best