Giving Sadaqah on behalf of parents

Q 1: What is the ruling on giving Sadaqah (voluntary charity) in the form of food on behalf of the parents? What is the ruling on saying "May Allah have mercy upon your parents, help me in this affair?"

A: The Sadaqah in the form of food and the like that benefit people is Mandub (commendable) and is an act of beneficence; so if you give it on behalf of your parents, it will be a form of showing kindness towards them and its reward will reach them as the Shari`ah gives evidence to this; this is the view of Ahl-ul-Sunnah (those adhering to the Sunnah). Helping Muslim brothers in goodness and meeting their permissible needs is Mandub according to the Shari`ah. (Part No. 25; Page No. 283) It is from the rights that a Muslim brother has on his brother. It strengthens the ties of Islamic brotherhood. Such benevolent acts encourage people to make Du`a' for you and your parents.May Allah grant us success. May peace and blessings be upon our Prophet Muhammad, his family, and Companions.