The Catholic Church in Cuba has revealed plans to dispatch four airplanes loaded with humanitarian aid from Miami to the dioceses severely impacted by Hurricane Melissa in the eastern regions of the island.
As reported by the Conference of Catholic Bishops of Cuba (COCC), a first plane has already delivered supplies to Santiago de Cuba, and a second flight is scheduled to land in Holguín on Saturday, November 15th.
Following these, two additional planes will take off, targeting the dioceses of Guantánamo–Baracoa and Bayamo–Manzanillo.
The bishops emphasized that this assistance stems from the "brotherly love of the Archdiocese of Miami," which has mobilized to support the communities devastated by the cyclone.
Humanitarian Effort Coordination
The operation is being orchestrated through Caritas Cuba, in partnership with Caritas from other nations and allied Churches, which have sent and will continue to send resources to the dioceses overwhelmed by the hurricane.
The bishops' note mentions the reports from the bishops of the dioceses affected by Melissa during the 166th Ordinary Plenary Assembly, highlighting the challenging reality faced by their territories and the charitable gestures received "since the cyclone's initial impact."
Carmen María Nodal, director of Caritas Cuba, also provided a report detailing the joint efforts between National Caritas, diocesan Caritas, and international support networks. She highlighted the ongoing reception of aid from multiple dioceses and Churches worldwide.
Future Aid and International Collaboration
The bishops disclosed that they anticipate finalizing the aid offered by the United States Administration in the upcoming weeks. The distribution will be managed "in collaboration with Caritas in both countries," ensuring resources reach efficiently while respecting the Church’s identity and mission in Cuba.
The COCC expressed gratitude "to all those who have promptly and generously turned their attention to this people, helping to alleviate so much suffering," as well as appreciation for the support and collaboration that has facilitated the reception and distribution of external aid.
They also acknowledged the "ecumenical testimonies of common service" visible in these efforts, referring to the cooperation with other Churches and Christian communities.
Addressing the Crisis in Eastern Cuba
In their statement, the bishops contextualize this humanitarian endeavor amidst a severe crisis in eastern Cuba following Melissa's passage, where reports indicate destroyed homes, isolated communities, infrastructure damage, and shortages of basic resources. This situation has compelled the Church to intensify its charitable presence and coordination with solidarity networks both domestically and internationally.
This past Wednesday, the head of Mission, Mike Hammer, met with eastern Cuban bishops to assess needs and structure the distribution of $3 million aimed directly at those affected.
The Embassy highlighted that the funds for the island are part of a broader regional emergency assistance effort to save lives and address immediate needs caused by hurricane damage.
This announcement follows Washington's reaffirmation of its willingness to provide immediate humanitarian aid to the Cuban people affected by Melissa, insisting that the distribution channel remain exclusively non-governmental.
With the support of the bishops of the East and Caritas, the diplomatic mission confirmed it will continue coordinating the reception and deployment of resources to swiftly assist those in need.
Questions About Humanitarian Aid to Eastern Cuba
What is the Catholic Church's role in aiding Eastern Cuba?
The Catholic Church is coordinating the delivery of humanitarian aid through the dispatch of four airplanes from Miami to eastern Cuba, targeting dioceses severely impacted by Hurricane Melissa.
How is the aid operation being managed?
Caritas Cuba is managing the aid operation in collaboration with Caritas from other countries and allied Churches to ensure that resources reach the affected dioceses efficiently.
What is the role of the United States in this aid initiative?
The United States has pledged aid, and its administration is working closely with Caritas in both countries to facilitate the distribution of resources without involving the Cuban government.