Alms comes to us from the Greek word eleemosune – mercy or pity, used in Matthew 6:1-4; Acts 10:2; 24:17. It refers to being charitable – helping the poor. When we give to the less fortunate God says it is the same as giving to God (Proverbs 19:17).
Jesus taught that we should give in secret, not to be seen or known of men else we defeat the heart of giving. Giving is to be out of compassion for the recipient.