MACON, Ga. — While many 11-year-olds might be saving up for toys or games, Tessa Smith is turning her allowance into acts of kindness — one dollar at a time.

For six years, Smith said she has saved a portion of her weekly earnings to support Stuff the Truck, a community food drive that helps stock shelves and feed families across Middle Georgia during the holiday season.

“It feels kind of refreshing when I do it because I know that we’re helping at least someone out there,” Smith said.

Smith said she earns her allowance by helping her Lola, or grandmother in Tagalog, with chores like planting and hairstyling. Each week, she sets aside part of her earnings for donation.

“I normally help her plant stuff and do her hair,” Smith said.

Every time she receives her allowance, Smith puts $5

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