A heartwarming story has emerged from Cuba, where a group of compassionate individuals came together to raise over 1.7 million pesos to purchase a home for Benito, a single father caring for his 10-month-old baby who faces frequent health challenges. The duo had been living in dire poverty.
This inspiring tale was brought to light on Facebook by writer and activist Guillermo Rodríguez Sánchez. The story touched the hearts of thousands on social media, marking it as one of the most beautiful acts of solidarity in Cuba you might encounter today.
Remarkably, Benito never sought aid. It was through the efforts of Rodríguez, along with two other Cubans, Verona Bonce and Yunior Tamayo Barrios, that his story came to light. Upon learning of his situation and witnessing his dedication to his child in a hospital setting, these individuals decided to make a positive change in his life.
Community Effort and Generosity
The initiative to raise funds for the home purchase was driven by the collective efforts of numerous people in Ciego de Ávila. Contributions ranged from small donations to significant sums, yet it was the united effort of all involved that succeeded in transforming the lives of this small family.
The newly purchased home will be officially registered in the name of Benito's son, Benito Alejandro, providing a safer and healthier environment for him to grow.
Details of the Home Purchase and Additional Support
The collected funds facilitated not only the acquisition of the house but also the provision of essential items such as appliances, clothing, toys, food, and more. The allocation of the funds was as follows:
- Cost of the home: 1,190,000 CUP
- Cash provided to the father at the handover: 300,000 CUP
- Washing machine: 85,000 CUP
- Cooking pot: 21,000 CUP
- Backpack: 7,000 CUP
- Boots: 3,000 CUP
- Bank tax on the transaction: 68,000 CUP
- Funds given to the father for daily expenses during the process: 26,000 CUP
- Transportation costs: 31,000 CUP
- Snacks for guests at the handover: 9,000 CUP
- Donations of appliances, food, clothing, toys, shoes, and medicines: 280,000 CUP
The home handover was an emotional event, with many people gathering to celebrate the collective achievement.
Rodríguez Sánchez emphasized the significance of this charitable act and the unity it brought among Cubans. "Today, we were a small piece of a beautiful country, in that new little house," he reflected in his post.
Benito, deeply moved by the gesture, expressed gratitude for the overwhelming support and shared his hope that this new chapter will bring improved conditions for his child.
This story highlights the profound impact of community collaboration and empathy in a nation where countless families face severe economic hardships, with the state failing to provide solutions for the most vulnerable.
Questions About Cuban Solidarity Efforts
How did the community manage to raise such a large amount of money?
The community in Ciego de Ávila came together with contributions ranging from small donations to significant sums, driven by a shared desire to help Benito and his son.
Who were the key figures in organizing the fundraiser?
The main organizers behind the effort were Guillermo Rodríguez Sánchez, Verona Bonce, and Yunior Tamayo Barrios, who championed Benito's cause after learning about his situation.
What items were included in the donations besides the home?
In addition to the home, donations included essential items such as appliances, clothing, toys, food, and other necessities to support Benito and his son.