What is the ruling on participating in and donating to a charitable event where monetary and in-kind donations are collected, and where coupons are sold to enter a raffle for prizes awarded to winners? Are the prizes received from this raffle permissible, and what is the ruling on breaking a promise to donate if its impermissibility becomes clear?

Purchasing raffle tickets with the aim of winning is impermissible, as it involves gambling, even if one intends to donate the prize. However, purchasing an entry coupon for the purpose of participating in an event, with the possibility of being entered into a draw, is permissibly valid, and one may benefit from what is gained. There is no harm in participating and donating money, food, or clothing for charitable causes. Donating in a manner that resembles gambling is not permissible, and whoever promises to engage in it is not obligated to fulfill that promise; rather, they should pursue legitimate avenues for donation.