BRAZIL — Bruna and Ana Cristina, both mothers of children with autism, share how they found hope and support through Joni’s House Brazil, which they discovered through their church.After taking a soap-making course offered by Joni’s House, Bruna and Ana Cristina started their own business making and selling soaps. This new venture not only provides financial support for their families—it also offers a creative outlet and sense of purpose and empowerment. Bruna and Ana Cristina’s families in Brazil now have new opportunities, greater stability, and a strong sense of belonging in the body of Christ.

Bruna:

It wasn’t possible to work in a permanent job because of the care my son needed. I am Caio’s mother.

When he was born he had a disease in his bone marrow so he needed a transplant. During this process he had encephalitis that left him very weakened so he had to learnt to walk and speak and feed himself again. When he was six years old, we received the autism diagnosis as well.

Ana Cristina:

I have a son that has autism. His name is Joao and he is 12 years old. I depend on the government’s benefits because I have to take my son to therapy almost every day and the cost is high.

So we decided to start our business.

In Brazil Joni’s House provides training and resources for families struggling with disability to earn much-needed income.

Bruna:

We’ve learned to make soaps. First this income helps us at home and with the expenses. And second, I really need this for my mental health. I want to thank Joni and Friends a lot. This is a wonderful program. It has reached a lot of families in many ways: spiritually, physically and mentally in a very welcoming environment that serves families with disabilities and those with disabilities can come and feel welcome.

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About Joni and Friends

For 40 years, Joni and Friends has provided the hope of the Gospel and practical resources to people affected by disability around the globe. Ministry programs include Wheels for the World, Family Retreats, the Christian Institute on Disability, and church ministry training. Joni and Friends also delivers inspirational media such as the Joni and Friends radio program and podcasts. To find out more, please visit www.joniandfriends.org.