The tzedaka box represents a central tenet of Judaism, charity. In bygone years, a representative of a particular charity (“the tzedaka collector”) would drop off a box for you to keep, and would come once or several times a year to count and take the money, leaving you a handwritten receipt. While now we give by credit card or check, a tzedaka box still represents two things. It is a reminder to give, and is often given pride of place next to candlesticks to remind one to give before Shabbat. It is also a physical way to teach children to put away money for people and special causes. It is a wonderful gift for a bar or bat mitzvah child and a wise addition to any household. Empty it and donate the contents at least once a year!