The Catholic organization Caritas in Santiago de Cuba is continuing its vital food aid to thousands of families impacted by Hurricane Melissa. Through community kitchens and the distribution of humanitarian relief across the eastern diocese, Caritas is making a significant difference.
On Sunday, Ana María Piñol Navarrete, director of Caritas Santiago de Cuba, reported that over 3,000 individuals are receiving daily meals from emergency kitchens established following the hurricane, which caused severe damage to homes and infrastructure in eastern Cuba.
The efforts are part of a humanitarian response plan coordinated by the Church in collaboration with international organizations.
Between November 5 and 16, Caritas completed the distribution of 2,464 food kits and 350 "queen" pots donated by World Central Kitchen (WCK). Additionally, they prepared and distributed another 1,400 kits to affected families across various parishes.
"This assistance has been made possible by the joint efforts of volunteers, many of whom have also been affected, yet continue to serve with hope," stated Piñol.
The report also notes the arrival of over 20 tons of food from Miami, with additional shipments coming from Villa Clara, Havana, Matanzas, and Panama.
The latter included 1,625 tents donated by Catholic Relief Services (CRS), aimed at families who lost their homes.
Donations are being distributed among the dioceses of Santiago de Cuba, Bayamo-Manzanillo, Holguín-Tunas, and Guantánamo-Baracoa.
Caritas expressed gratitude towards the communities and organizations that have enabled continued assistance during one of the most challenging times for the eastern part of the country.
"We thank those who share not what they have in excess, but what they have; with such dedication, mountains are climbed and barriers are broken," the director stated in her communication.
The Church's efforts have become a crucial support system for the affected families, especially given the limited official response from the Cuban regime.
For instance, the community kitchens provide not only food but also human connection and hope amid the crisis.
Impact of Humanitarian Aid in Cuba Post-Hurricane Melissa
How many people are being assisted by Caritas in Santiago de Cuba?
Caritas is assisting over 3,000 individuals daily through their emergency kitchens in Santiago de Cuba.
What kind of support has World Central Kitchen provided?
World Central Kitchen has donated 2,464 food kits and 350 "queen" pots to aid families affected by Hurricane Melissa.
Which organizations are contributing to the relief efforts?
Organizations like World Central Kitchen and Catholic Relief Services are contributing significantly to the relief efforts in Cuba.