Prominent Argentinian pastor Dante Gebel has extended humanitarian support to Cuba during a severe health crisis precipitated by a rampant outbreak of multiple viruses. These viruses, spread by mosquitoes, have overwhelmed a country already struggling with inadequate medical services, leaving its population vulnerable and unprotected.
On Wednesday, Gebel announced the donation on his social media platforms, stating, “Our missionary team is currently in Cuba, in the city of Camalote. They are facing an immense health crisis due to various mosquito-borne viruses. Today, we distributed food bags to families in need.”
The post, which has gained significant traction online, features over a dozen photos showing the distribution of hundreds of food bags to the residents of Camalote, located in Camagüey. This province has been particularly hard-hit by arbovirus outbreaks, notably Chikungunya.
Hundreds gathered to receive the aid, delivered by staff from the Graneros Mission, an initiative of River Church. This church, led by Gebel in Anaheim, California, runs a social support program that supplies food and other essential items to vulnerable communities across various countries.
Images reveal that the distributed bags contained chicken, cookies, spaghetti, and other packaged food items.
This is not the first instance of River Church's humanitarian efforts in Cuba. Back in November 2024, missionaries from Gebel’s church arrived with food donations for those affected by hurricanes that ravaged the eastern and western parts of the island.
In one Mayabeque province locality, many gathered near a local church to receive donations, which also included toys and bicycles for children.
River Church has further contributed by building homes for elderly residents in rural communities and installing solar panels to mitigate the frequent power outages plaguing the population.
Dante Gebel is renowned within the global Hispanic community for his inspiring and charismatic preaching from the River Arena in California, alongside his extensive humanitarian contributions across various nations.
In 2018, Gebel had planned a series of events in Cuba, but the island's regime barred his entry, fearing his ability to mobilize and influence public opinion.
Understanding Dante Gebel's Humanitarian Efforts in Cuba
What prompted Dante Gebel to send aid to Cuba?
Dante Gebel was motivated to send aid to Cuba due to a severe health crisis caused by mosquito-borne viruses, which have significantly impacted the underserved population lacking adequate medical services.
What kind of aid did River Church provide to Cuban communities?
River Church provided food bags containing chicken, cookies, spaghetti, and other essential packaged items. They also distributed toys and bicycles to children and have contributed to building homes for the elderly and installing solar panels.
Why was Dante Gebel denied entry to Cuba in 2018?
The Cuban regime denied Dante Gebel entry in 2018 due to concerns over his capacity to gather and influence a large audience, potentially impacting public opinion.