Generally, Charity refers to wealth in the form of money, edible substances, clothing and other such items. The word Sadaqa encompasses a wider variety of articles. All of these things on the list are given, sponsored or donated to the needy and the destitute.

This deed is in keeping with the injunctions in the Noble Qura-e-Kareem and the Ahadeeth of our beloved Nabi Muhammad (Salallahu alaihi wa Sallam).
The main thrust of all of this noble act, is to assist the downtrodden and the underprivileged segments of society. Vis-à-vis, keep and help humanity, the unfortunate ones in particular, to maintain their dignity, respect and decorum.

There is no doubt whatsoever that act of discharging charity is dearly loved by Allah Ta’ala. The Noble Quran-e-Kareem categorically states:-

“Those who spend in charity will be richly rewarded.” (Ch. 75, V. 10)

Additionally, Allah Ta’ala removes the difficulties, hardships, calamities and other forms of tests and trials by virtue of giving charity, for His pleasure.

Are there other forms of charity that might be used to alleviate the difficulties of the poverty-stricken, the impoverished and the deprived?

For example, Nabi (Alai his Salaam) is reported to have stated:-

“To guide a person, when there is a likelihood that he might go astray, is charity.” (Bukhari)

Viewed in the light of the above, it is thus clear that there are numerous (umpteen) other ways to earn rewards in the name of charity. Simply removing something harmful from the lane/road used by people, is charitable act. A simple act of removing a banana peel is virtually effortless, but the reward is tremendous.

One may:-

make a little physical effort;
spend a small amount of one’s wealth;
donate some grains or other edible items;
sponsor pupils’ Maktab fees;
“dress” a needy person;
Drill a bore-hole;
plant trees;
etc.