AUSTIN, Texas — Each year, the third week of June marks Deafblind Awareness Week, a time dedicated to increasing understanding of the unique challenges faced by individuals who are both deaf and blind. This national observance also honors the legacy of Helen Keller—born June 27, 1880—who overcame both disabilities to become the first Deafblind person in the United States to earn a college degree. Keller’s groundbreaking advocacy forever changed public perceptions about people with combined hearing and vision loss.
In recognition of this important week, the Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) will host a special Deafblind Awareness Art Show and Community Celebration on Tuesday, June 25, from 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at the North Austin Complex, located at 4601 W. Guadalupe Street. The event, themed “Building Community Through Connection,” will feature personal stories, artwork, and resource exhibits from members of the Deafblind community and participants in the Blind Children’s Vocational Discovery and Development Program (BCVDDP).
Community partners and the public are invited to attend and view the art, hear from guest speakers, and browse informational booths. Artworks from the event will remain on display through July 25 in the North Austin Complex’s first-floor corridor.
In a proclamation recognizing the week, Governor Greg Abbott reaffirmed the state’s commitment to the Deafblind community: “Though much progress has been made, our work is far from finished. Awareness, advocacy, and continued investment remain critical if we are to ensure that Deafblind people can thrive.”
Supporting Texas Children Who Are Deafblind
The HHSC Blind Children’s Program, which supports youth with vision impairments from birth through age 22, provides essential services to help children gain confidence, independence, and vocational readiness. For children with combined hearing and vision loss, Deafblind specialists work with families to create personalized service plans tailored to their unique needs.
Services include:
-
Communication strategies and Deafblind-specific tools
-
Independent living and mobility training
-
Parent and caregiver guidance
-
Resource referrals and access to community partners
Parents interested in exploring these services can contact the program via:
-
Email: [email protected]
-
Phone: 877-787-8999 (Option 3 after language selection)
-
Online application: Blind Children’s Program Request
Protecting Rights and Promoting Equity
Texas HHS affirms its commitment to providing fair, nondiscriminatory services for all children and families. The Civil Rights Office oversees compliance with federal and state laws, conducts investigations, and provides training to ensure equitable access across programs.
For more information, visit the HHSC Civil Rights Office website.
As Texas observes Deafblind Awareness Week, community events like the June 25 art celebration underscore the importance of connection, inclusion, and opportunity. Through awareness and action, the state continues to build a future where all Texans—including those who are Deafblind—can thrive.
