The Cuban stylist Dorian Carbonell paid a visit to the orphanage in Guanabacoa, Havana, and shared a heartfelt video detailing his experience upon entering the facility.
"I never imagined encountering this in a place for orphaned children," Carbonell expressed at the start of the video, visibly moved.
Carbonell explained that the home is a refuge for nine children: "Nine kids, nine stories, nine worlds. These children may not have the same starting point as others, but their desire to smile is incredible."
He brought along his haircutting tools, clowns, and various activities to brighten their day. The orphanage is located at 110 Santamaría del Rosario Road, in the De Beche neighborhood.
"We brought laughter, haircuts, and clowns, but honestly, they gave us so much more in return," he elaborated.
Margarita González Barrios, the home's director and an educator with over 36 years of experience, expressed her gratitude for the visit.
Carbonell also spoke about the children with special health conditions he met there: "Some kids are battling more severe health issues, yet they look at you with a disarming peace."
The stylist reflected on his experience: "Today, I realized there are battles that are not visible but deeply felt."
In the video description, Carbonell expanded on his thoughts: "Sometimes we think helping means bringing material things... but today I understood it's also about offering time, attention... and a bit of joy."
As of 2023, Cuba had 54 orphanages serving over 400 children, with only three new facilities constructed since 2022.
The numbers are inadequate. According to data presented to the Cuban Parliament in 2024, there are 100,737 students classified as vulnerable and 9,006 children aged zero to six in "complex social situations," reported 14ymedio.
The situation for children on the island is increasingly precarious.
In October 2025, viral images showed children sleeping in the gardens of a Havana hotel. In response, a Cuban lawmaker publicly acknowledged the shortcomings in the child care system.
A day before Carbonell's video was released, the Ministry of Education issued Resolution 62, introducing new institutional care modalities for orphaned children.
Understanding Cuba's Orphanage Challenges
How many orphanages are there in Cuba?
As of 2023, there are 54 orphanages in Cuba, serving over 400 children.
What challenges do Cuban orphanages face?
Cuban orphanages face challenges such as insufficient facilities to meet the needs of vulnerable children, with only three new homes built since 2022.
What recent measures has the Cuban government taken regarding orphanages?
In response to the growing needs, the Cuban Ministry of Education issued Resolution 62, establishing new care modalities for orphaned children.