According to Rama, what can Ma'aser money be used for?

Rama, a significant Halachic authority, articulates that Ma'aser money, which refers to the tithe set aside for charitable purposes, is primarily designated to support poor individuals. This understanding is rooted in the broader principles of charity in Jewish law, which emphasize the importance of caring for the less fortunate. According to Halacha, the essence of Ma'aser is to alleviate poverty and support those in need, thus, its primary use is to aid the impoverished.

While the other options present valid charitable endeavors, they do not align with the specific guidelines regarding the use of Ma'aser. For example, using Ma'aser for personal family needs detracts from its intended purpose of helping those who are in dire circumstances. Similarly, community improvement projects, while beneficial, do not fulfill the primary obligation of supporting the poor that is intrinsic to Ma'aser funds. The same applies to charitable deeds of the donor's choice, which may not necessarily align with the urgent needs of impoverished individuals. Therefore, the correct application of Ma'aser money, per Rama's guidance, highlights its critical role in directly aiding those in financial distress.