Ahmed, one of several disabled employees benefiting from OB’s livelihood project, cuts and places stones into a coffee table mosaic.

WEST BANK, Israel – From his weathered face and calloused hands, you can tell that Ahmed is a man who is not afraid of hard work.

But not everyone sees him that way. Some see only his crutch and the stilted gait that comes from one leg being shorter than the other.

WATCH VIDEO

Though born with a physical disability, Ahmed was able to support himself as a social worker for many years. After that, he taught the skill of watch making.

Then, a few years ago, he lost his teaching position and has found it impossible to get hired again. And Ahmed isn’t alone in his struggle.

“Here it’s very difficult for disabled people to have the opportunity to work because of their situation,” said Samer, owner of Bethlehem Mosaics. “We give them that opportunity.”

A portrait of St. Joseph and Jesus is one of many beautiful mosaics created by Samer and his team.

That opportunity is creating beautiful mosaics at Samer’s shop on the outskirts of Bethlehem.

Here, employees like Ahmed help sand, cut and create hand-made mosaics—everything from simple crosses and jewelry boxes to masterful iconic depictions of saints and intricately designed coffee tables.

When Operation Blessing learned about Samer’s work and vision to help employ those with disabilities, it turned out to be a perfect fit.

OB Israel provided all the tools and equipment necessary to get the business started and is also helping find distribution outlets to sell the pieces. Eventually the goal is to also help Samer open a storefront next to the workshop.

But the biggest blessing is seeing the impact it has in the lives of people like Ahmed who desire to be independent and provide for their families.

“They told me, ‘You’ll get a good salary and you will support your family,’ ” Ahmed said. “And this is my aim,” he added with a smile.

HOW YOU CAN HELP

This microenterprise venture is one of many Operation Blessing projects touching lives around the world. You can be a part of improving the quality of life for impoverished communities by supporting these and other life-changing programs.

 

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