Two young Cuban content creators have taken it upon themselves to cook and distribute meals to vulnerable individuals wandering the streets of Santiago de Cuba.
This compassionate initiative was shared through a video on Instagram by Briana Espino and Magguie.
The footage captures the preparation of a full meal made with the help of their families: yellow rice, boiled sweet potatoes, tomato salad, and chicken fricassee.
Amid challenging conditions—without electricity, using charcoal, surrounded by smoke and oppressive heat—they managed to cook up this delightful meal.
“There was no electricity, but there was charcoal, there was smoke, there was heat, and there was plenty of determination,” they narrate in the video.
This is not the first time these women have taken to the streets with pots and containers to distribute food and connect with those in need in their community.
“The last time we went out to share food, we never anticipated receiving so much love in return. Messages, comments, people wanting to join in, and that's when we realized something important: when something is genuine, people feel it,” they explain.
The overwhelming response from the community encouraged them to continue their efforts.
This action takes place amid a humanitarian crisis gripping Cuba, where incidents of fainting from hunger, foraging for food on the ground, and a noticeable increase in homeless elderly individuals have been reported.
In light of the lack of government response, Cuban citizens—particularly the younger generation—have stepped up with solidarity initiatives that they document on social media.
Such efforts are also seen in Havana, Matanzas, Cienfuegos, and Cárdenas. In June 2025, a priest successfully fed 310 vulnerable individuals in Santiago; on December 31, over 250 needy Cubans enjoyed a New Year’s Eve dinner in Havana.
Espino acknowledges in the video the ripple effect of showcasing these acts of kindness on social platforms.
“We know that the most beautiful acts often happen away from a camera, but we also believe that showing the good can spark beautiful things in others. They can inspire, they can motivate... they can make someone see this and say, I too can contribute.”
Understanding the Humanitarian Crisis in Cuba
What prompted these young women to start distributing meals?
The young women were motivated by the dire humanitarian crisis in Cuba, where many people are struggling to find enough food. Their initiative was a heartfelt response to the increasing needs in their community.
How do the actions of these women impact their community?
Their actions have inspired others in the community to get involved and help those in need. The visibility of their efforts on social media has sparked a wider awareness and prompted further acts of kindness.
What challenges do they face while preparing meals?
They face significant challenges such as lack of electricity, requiring them to cook with charcoal amidst smoke and heat, but their determination and community support help them overcome these obstacles.