Most 9-year-olds have a very precise idea of what they want for their birthdays, and they can’t wait to tear open their presents.
This is likely true of 9-year-old Sivana Athanas, making it all the more extraordinary that she gave her gifts away.
The Police Department in Weymouth, Massachusetts, posted the story with photos on its Facebook page on Thursday.
“The remarkable thing about this story is that the toys that Athanas donated to Toys for Tots were gifts that she had just received for her birthday!” the post said. “What a wonderful gesture.”
The story has since gone viral after being covered by CNN affiliate WBZ.
Athanas’ mother, Marissa Leavitt, attributed it to Sivana Athanas’ upbringing, focusing on selfless acts. Leavitt told the local Patriot-Ledger that she asked specifically for gifts she could donate.
According to the paper, the Police Department surprised Athanas at school with a certificate of recognition from the police chief and a $100 Visa gift card.