2024 Impact Report | A divine touch

If Braille is needed to hear God speak, CBS wants to help.

“I express my gratitude to God, the Bible Society and the Blind Association for opening the doors of Braille knowledge to me. In darkness, I found a path illuminated by faith and learning, transforming my trajectory into a narrative of overcoming and hope.” — Helena Bango, in Angola

The dots above declare “God loves you” in Braille. The 200-year-old technology and language remain crucial in unlocking Scripture for people with visual disability. In country after country, society often ignores the skills, talents, and intelligence of those with visual disabilities. CBS is bringing about change by working alongside partners with sustained outreach to people deeply underserved by Scriptures. In the past year, CBS donors helped people in Angola and Costa Rica to have Scriptures in Braille and other supports. Our programs usually include literacy training, audio and large-print materials, and advocacy to government departments and the community.

ANGOLA: Our partner opened two new Braille classrooms and equipped them with Braille Scriptures, Braille machines and teaching materials. Teachers distribute Scripture portions and use Braille listening groups, certificates, contests and awards to motivate the students to overcome the hurdles they face.

COSTA RICA: In addition to Bible and literature distribution, leaders in Costa Rica conduct awareness workshops from a Biblical perspective, teaching self-esteem, empathy, and emotional awareness. They offer instruction in areas ranging from basic Braille to employment training and provide awareness sessions in churches and government departments.

“One of the most important efforts we make is to train governmental and nongovernmental institutions in the appropriate treatment of people with disabilities. We recognize that the most important limitation to overcome is attitude; that is, we must educate people to provide the best possible treatment to blind people.” — Javier Fallas, Costa Rican Bible Society Member