Hey everyone, need some advice on giving Zakat

Salam, I've got a question that's been on my mind since Jummah. Our Imam mentioned that zakat and sadaqat-ul-fitr should only be given through the Islamic Community's official channels, and not directly to individuals, as doing so might not fulfill the obligation properly. This topic always comes up during Ramadan, with some folks feeling uneasy about where the money goes, preferring to help their neighbors or those in need directly. But according to the guidance, that's considered sadaqah, not zakat, which has specific rules. There's also talk among some local imams about concerns over misuse of funds, suggesting they might not always reach the intended beneficiaries. Would love to hear your thoughts on handling this with sincerity and care.