How can one seek help through patience in times of tribulation, and is it permissible for the one entrusted with distributing Zakat to the poor and needy to take a portion of it for himself, knowing that the owner of the money cannot be informed of this?

The questioner is advised to recite the supplication (du'a) authentically reported from the Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him, for relieving distress and settling debt, which is: "O Allah, I seek refuge in You from anxiety and sorrow, and I seek refuge in You from incapacity and laziness, and I seek refuge in You from cowardice and miserliness, and I seek refuge in You from the dominance of debt and the oppression of men."

Regarding the agent taking from the zakat (definition) that he was entrusted to distribute: If he is eligible for zakat and the giver of zakat did not specify the method of distribution, there is no harm in him taking according to his need.

As for forbidden work: It is not permissible to engage in it unless the matter reaches the point of dire necessity that would lead to destruction or something close to it, with no permissible alternative available. In such a case, it is permissible to the extent of the need, while actively seeking lawful work, because whoever gives up something for the sake of Allah, Allah will compensate him with something better.