While some people might find having a birthday near Christmas disappointing because fewer gifts may be given, a local student turns the coinciding events into a chance to give presents to the community.

Haley Munroe turned 12 years old on Dec. 13, and rather than accept gifts from her party guests she asked guests to bring gift cards for stores where she could buy supplies for the food bank.

This is the third year the North Tapps Middle School sixth-grade student has donated to the community.

“It’s just grown a little bit every year,” said Haley’s mother Paula Munroe.

This year, she raised about $500 for the food bank.

“Each year she’s increased what she’s gotten,” Paula said.

Haley used the gift cards and birthday money to purchase much-needed baby supplies and items for the food bank.

Between her efforts and those of her classmates at North Tapps Middle School, which hosts a drive each year, there is more to go around. Sixth-, seventh- and eighth-grade students compete to bring in the most food. Once it’s gathered, the students take it to the food bank in buses.

Haley, who got the idea for donating for the birthday from a friend, dropped off the items Dec. 13, her birthday. She hopes others might be inspired by the giving and do the same.