What Are Common Illiteracy Remedies for Those Living in Poverty?

Throughout much of history, illiteracy remedies have been tested. GFA states the importance of literacy: As a disabler, “Illiteracy is more dominant than poverty, more dominant than a chronic physical disability, and more dominant than even an oppressive social system.”¹

GFA World provides the following illiteracy remedies:

• Literacy classes – These classes teach adults how to identify letters and write them and how those letters work together to make sounds and words. When adults learn to read, they can understand street signs, directions, labels and agreements. They can also help their children with their homework and read to them. Literacy classes make a lifechanging difference in the lives of adults who are living in poverty. GFA classes focus on teaching both reading and writing. Each participant receives a workbook, and the class learns basic skills by working through the book together.
• Numeracy training – Classes that teach numeracy are critical to literacy. Even going to the market can be challenging when a person doesn’t understand numbers and basic math. A numerically illiterate person is likely to be taken advantage of in these settings. They are also unable to read and understand agreements involving numbers, like rental and employment contracts.
• Education for children – Impoverished families, especially in Asia and Africa, often resort to taking their children out of school so they can work. This greatly increases their chances of illiteracy and poverty as adults. Educating children is one of the best ways to help them escape the clutches of poverty.

GFA reports, “To become literate is exactly what miracle cures are about. It is an intellectual healing, the acquisition of incalculable capabilities and the establishment of approval from others and from oneself. To be able to read and write is a gift of immeasurable worth. It is, indeed, a miracle cure.”²