Christopher Banghart is only 6 years old, but he has already grasped the concept of sharing the blessings in his life with others. On March 14, Christopher will turn 7 years old, and he hopes his happy day will bring joy to Haitian orphans.

Instead of birthday presents for himself, the Jefferson School first grader hopes to encourage others to donate gifts that will bring some happiness to children who live in a Third World country, absent of parents or even homes.

Christopher Banghart

“I’m going to help other people by giving some stuff and then giving it to those people in the orphanage,” explained Christopher. The donations will go to Allowing Christ to Shine, a local organization dedicated to helping the children in Haiti.

A.C.T.S. was introduced to Jason and Ruth Banghart of Winona Lake through Warsaw Community Church. Christopher said, “A lot of people, like, they don’t have very much stuff. They don’t have moms and dads and they don’t have toys and books to read … My mom kinda teached me about that.”

Ruth Banghart added, “We talked about our many blessings and how blessed we are and how lucky Christopher is to have a mom and dad and a good mom and dad. We talked about that not all children have the same opportunities and the same life that he does.”

The purpose of A.C.T.S. is to provide shelter, education, food, teaching the word of God and showing God’s love to those in Haiti. Christopher’s selfless act serves the A.C.T.S. mission well which, among other things, to provide “a caring, loving environment” for the children.

Instead of receiving birthday presents for himself, Christopher is asking his friends to donate a gift, or even a financial contribution, to the orphanage. Monetary donations should include “Christopher’s bday” in the memo line of checks, by made payable to A.C.T.S. and mailed to the organization at P.O. Box 841, Warsaw IN 46581.

To further help the Christian organization, gently used unwrapped toys may also be donated for the A.C.T.S. upcoming garage sale. The sale will also benefit the mission. To find out more, visit allowingchristtoshine.org.

As for Christopher, he assured there will still be plenty of fun at his birthday party, set to be held at the New Life Christian Church Joy Jungle. “Well yeah, I still get a party, but I get more time with my friends, because I’m having more than 10 people over.” He said he’s also getting presents from his parents and grandparents and explained, “Oh yes, there will be cake. It’s not a party without cake!”