Is it reprehensible to give charity to acquaintances such as the schoolmaids of one's children or the building's doorman, knowing that they might show favoritism to the giver and their children?

A sadaqah (charity) is either an obligatory zakat or a voluntary sadaqah. If it is an obligatory zakat, it may only be given to the eight categories mentioned in the Quran. However, if it is a voluntary sadaqah, it may be given to anyone. It must be noted that this sadaqah must not be given as a bribe.