On Monday, a heartwarming act of solidarity unfolded on social media as a group of residents from Santiago came together to assist a child in dire need of shoes. The touching moment was shared on the Facebook group "Bazar Santiago de Cuba" by user Isis Lescay, who posted about the child receiving two pairs of shoes.
Lescay highlighted that two individuals contributed to helping the child, and she personally delivered the shoes to ensure full transparency of this charitable act. "May God multiply good deeds. Blessings to all," she added.
She also included a message from one of the donors who offered wise advice to the child: "Don't lose hope. Take life one step at a time, stay away from crime, and always choose the right path, and life will reward you."
The donor expressed a desire to continue supporting the child, stating they would search through their belongings for additional items like clothing and other necessities, adding, "Tell him to enjoy them."
Call for Community Support
In a previous post, Lescay had called upon the community to aid the child, emphasizing his urgent need for shoes and adequate clothing. "This child needs help; he lacks shoes and enough clothes. We need collaboration to support him," she wrote, noting that the child wears size #41. She also invited those interested in more details to contact her privately.
A Broader Crisis and Acts of Kindness
The ongoing crisis in Cuba paints a heartbreaking picture, with many children lacking basic necessities like clothing and shoes. However, it also sparks moving displays of community solidarity.
Just last October, a young man from Santiago, who uses his earnings to care for his ailing parents, reached out on social media for a pair of shoes. His appeal was met with overwhelming community support. Rosa Bella shared on "Bazar Santiago de Cuba" that the young man, who received several pairs of shoes, has no psychiatric condition or illness. He works honestly to provide for his sick father and mother.
Alarming Statistics on Cuban Poverty
In July, the Cuban Observatory for Human Rights released the VII Report on the State of Social Rights in Cuba 2024, shedding light on the stark realities faced by Cubans. The NGO highlighted that "89% of Cuban families endure extreme poverty," a percentage point higher than the previous year and a 13% increase since 2022.
One of the most striking findings is that "7 out of 10 Cubans have had to skip breakfast, lunch, or dinner due to financial constraints or food scarcity."