Tefilo and mitzvos are zechusim, and can certainly help someone in need. However, we know from our tefilos of selichos and Yomim Noraim that we approach Hashem as “dalim” and “roshim”, empty handed, not flaunting our mitzvos as the basis to receive anything in return. Regardless, HKB”H is His infinite kindness to us grants us whatever He feels is for our good. HKB”H answers every tefilo, just that sometimes the answer is “No”.
It is quite upsetting to see the collection of tzedokoh for the poor, the sick, or the support of Torah being marketed n ways that parallel the selling of merchandise. The enticements, the advertising, the flaunting of promises, the claims of how the value is guaranteed, and worst of all is the exploitation of Jewish guilt – all have denigrated the great mitzvoh of tzedokoh.
Are we fully conscious that the Vilna Gaon, Reb Chaim Brisker, Besh”t, Reb Elimelech, etc. never donated a single penny to Kupat Ha’ir or to the Vaad Horabbonim? There are many worthy tzedokos, and none of these organizations own the monopoly on the mitzvah, your money, or the schar that HKB”H gives to those who fulfill this great mitzvah.