Education for Blind Chinese Orphans

This quarter, Bethel’s educational programs embraced a season of growth and discovery. From hands-on activities that connect children with the natural world to the introduction of new creative and practical subjects like music, arts, and computer skills, our curriculum continues to nurture both the minds and hearts of the children in our care. With strong attendance across all centers and new students joining, Bethel remains committed to providing a well-rounded, inclusive education. Among the many inspiring moments, the journey of Jia, a young Tibetan girl who has overcome immense challenges, stands out as a powerful example of the impact of compassionate support and personalized learning.

Key Highlights

• Total of 104 children under care, including two new students welcomed in Beijing.

• Curriculum expanded with new creative and practical courses for all students.

• Heartwarming progress of Tibetan student Jia completing Braille and independent living skills.

• Tactile storybook launched, enhancing sensory learning for blind children.

• 60 tactile teaching kits distributed nationwide to support early intervention.
  
  

Love is Blind- Bethel School

To welcome a new season of growth, teachers at Bethel’s Zhengzhou Project organized a hands-on sowing activity in April for the 28 children in their care. As the children planted seeds and explored the texture of soil, they also developed important life skills like patience, responsibility, and curiosity.

This spirit of growth extended into the classroom as well. Bethel’s curriculum expanded to include new subjects such as choir, melodica, hulusi flute, arts and crafts, and computer skills—fostering both practical development and creative expression.

Across all Bethel centers, 104 children are currently under care. In June, two new students—Xu and Wang —were warmly welcomed into the Beijing center.

A particularly heartwarming milestone comes from Jia, a young Tibetan girl who lost her sight due to a brain tumor. When she arrived at Bethel in 2023, she was withdrawn and spoke only Tibetan. Over two years, with patient support, she learned Mandarin, Braille, and daily living skills. This April, she completed her time at Bethel and is now preparing to attend the Tibet School for the Blind.

Project Outreach

This quarter, Bethel focused its outreach on expanding access to sensory learning tools, celebrating community milestones, and promoting inclusion through national events. In April, the Beijing team completed a new tactile storybook, The Journey of Yuanyuan, made from materials like wood, cotton, and metal. This hands-on book helps blind children explore textures, build sensory vocabulary, and engage their imaginations through touch.

Beyond the classroom and celebrations, Bethel also engaged with wider national conversations around inclusion and disability awareness. The team participated in key events such as the International Autism Symposium and China’s Eye Care Day on June 6th. Cultural outings, including an art exhibition at the German Embassy and a children’s play at the Poly Theatre, provided further opportunities for the children to experience the world beyond their immediate environments.

One of the most impactful efforts this quarter was Bethel’s nationwide distribution campaign for early intervention tactile teaching aids. Sixty visually impaired children from across China received these specially designed kits. Most applicants were between 7 and 9 years old, and over 60% had little or no vision—demonstrating the growing demand for tools that support early learning through play and touch.

Walk for the World

As children at Bethel explore nature, new skills, and joyful moments through tactile books and celebrations, we’re reminded of the power of steady, compassionate support. One heartwarming story this quarter is Jia, a Tibetan girl who came to Bethel after losing her sight to a brain tumor. Once withdrawn and speaking only Tibetan, she has spent two years learning Mandarin, Braille, and independent living skills—now ready to enter the Tibet School for the Blind with confidence.

This kind of transformation is made possible by the generosity of our donors and the dedication of Bethel’s teachers and staff, whose tireless work lights the way for each child. You can help too—by sponsoring a child, donating toward glasses or learning tools, or simply giving what you can. Every gift, big or small, opens doors to a brighter future. Thank you for being part of this journey. Together, we help children grow, learn, and thrive.

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