1. Is it permissible to give charity to non-Muslims in America? 2. How should one deal with a beggar who asks for a specific amount, whether Muslim or non-Muslim? 3. Does the same ruling apply in the two previous cases if the beggar is addicted to drugs or alcohol?

It is permissible to give non-obligatory charity (Sadaqa) to needy non-Muslims, especially relatives, as long as they are not belligerent or aggressive. This is supported by the Almighty's saying: (Allah does not forbid you from those who do not fight you because of religion and do not expel you from your homes - from being righteous toward them and acting justly toward them) and by the hadith of Asma bint Abi Bakr. However, it is not permissible to give them from Zakat, as it is specifically for needy Muslims. Giving charity to needy Muslims is better and more preferable because it aids in obeying Allah and strengthens ties among Muslims. If the person requesting money is in need, whether Muslim or non-Muslim, they should be given what is available, and it is better for needy Muslims to resort to charitable organizations. It is not permissible to give money to someone who requests it to commit a sin or purchase something unlawful, based on the Almighty's saying: (And cooperate in righteousness and piety, but do not cooperate in sin and aggression).