I have given much thought to the whole concept of gift giving the last couple of years, not just during a holiday or a birthday, but for any occasion.
I think we who are doing the giving should ask the givee what they want. If we have a limited budget then ask them if there is something with in your means that you could give.
We as the giver have no right to expect any kind of reaction from the receiver, if we do, then we are not truly giving for them but for ourselves.
If your reason for giving is to make you feel good then find a place to give to for that purpose.
If your reason for giving is to make the other happy then be sure what you are giving is really what they want.
We really have no right to have unrealistic expectations from others, shame on us when we do.