Leidys Martha Matos Salazar, a resident of Santiago de Cuba, took to social media to request humanitarian assistance for a family in dire straits within her community. Through a heartfelt post in the Facebook group “La Gente del Salao,” Matos highlighted the harsh reality faced by this family in the La Redonda neighborhood, emphasizing the growing poverty affecting many people in the region.
“This family is living in unfavorable conditions. We are once again asking for humanitarian aid from all the mothers in the group who are always willing to help,” stated Matos, who also announced a donation drive and provided the contact number 58121325 for those willing to contribute.
Matos shared a gallery of images depicting the mother and her three young children living in extreme poverty. This plea for help underscores the continued inaction by the Cuban regime in addressing the escalating poverty and basic needs of its population.
In July, the Cuban Observatory for Human Rights (OCDH) presented its VII Report on the State of Social Rights in Cuba 2024, revealing startling insights into the Cuban reality. The non-governmental organization highlighted in the document that “89% of Cuban families suffer from extreme poverty,” an increase from the previous year and a 13% rise from 2022.
One of the most significant findings is that “7 out of 10 Cubans have skipped breakfast, lunch, or dinner due to lack of money or food scarcity.”
Understanding the Growing Poverty in Cuba
This section addresses common questions and concerns regarding the increasing poverty in Cuba, as highlighted by recent reports and individual cases like the one in Santiago de Cuba.
What is the current state of poverty in Cuba?
According to the Cuban Observatory for Human Rights (OCDH), 89% of Cuban families are living in extreme poverty as of 2024, with a significant number of people unable to afford basic meals.
How has the Cuban regime responded to the poverty crisis?
The Cuban regime has been criticized for its lack of effective action in addressing the growing poverty and failing to meet the basic needs of its population, as evidenced by numerous individual and collective appeals for humanitarian aid.
How can individuals help families in need in Cuba?
Individuals can contribute to donation drives organized by community members or contact local aid groups, such as the one mentioned by Leidys Martha Matos Salazar, to offer support directly to families in need.