A group of local residents led by Yosdiel Gattorno came together to prepare a heartwarming soup, known as caldosa, for the less fortunate in their community. This act of kindness, documented in two videos shared on Facebook, touched the hearts of thousands of Cubans both on and off the island.
The initiative was inspired by a social media follower's suggestion. "We have a promise to keep, and today, in our own way, we're going to try to do a good deed. A follower suggested we make caldosa with the help of the neighborhood, and we set the plan in motion," Gattorno explained in the video.
Responsibilities were distributed among the residents: some gathered firewood, others peeled vegetables and cooked, and a few kept the fire burning.
A large pot, big enough to feed the entire neighborhood, was lent by a generous local.
Once the caldosa was ready, the word was sent out to those in need. "People came with bowls, some with five-pound containers of rice, and a few even came back for seconds," Gattorno recounted.
The scene was filled with Cuban humor and genuine emotion, captured amidst laughter, jokes, and friendly banter.
One participant also donated plates and utensils to the elderly who came by.
"I gave away some plates and little things to my elderly friends who came to prepare caldosa. It's all about helping, right?" he said to the camera.
Gattorno couldn't ignore the harsh reality he witnessed: "It's tough to see so many people in need. But with a clove of garlic from one, a pumpkin from another, and the desire to help, through laughter, jokes, and discussions, we managed to do something good together."
This effort is part of a growing trend of community solidarity in Cuba. In February, young people in Cienfuegos cooked caldosa for elderly individuals living alone or without resources.
In April, a hotel in Cárdenas began serving caldosa every Sunday to those in need in the town square.
And YouTuber Juanka distributed 100 meals in the streets of Havana, targeting seniors, women, and children.
In December 2025, residents of Mulgoba opened their doors with the slogan "If you don't have dinner, come over," showcasing the kind of solidarity the Cuban government fails to provide.
The backdrop to these actions is an unprecedented food crisis: 36% of the Cuban population is experiencing food insecurity according to the World Food Program, rice costs 340 pesos per pound in Havana, and 80% of households have had to cut back on the amount or quality of their meals.
In this context, caldosa—a quintessential communal dish in Cuban culture—has become a symbol of grassroots resistance. As Gattorno concluded in the video, "You can always do a little, you can always do something."
Understanding the Cuban Community's Response to Food Insecurity
What inspired the caldosa initiative in the Cuban community?
The caldosa initiative was inspired by a suggestion from a social media follower, which led Yosdiel Gattorno and his neighbors to come together and help those in need with a communal meal.
How does the caldosa symbolize resistance in Cuba?
Caldosa, a traditional communal dish, has become a symbol of grassroots resistance amid Cuba's food crisis, representing community solidarity and mutual aid in the face of government shortcomings.
What is the current food insecurity situation in Cuba?
According to the World Food Program, 36% of the Cuban population is experiencing food insecurity, with rice prices soaring and 80% of households having to reduce their food intake.