Each day, a boy named Emmanuel walks the streets of the Havana road in Sancti Spíritus, carrying homemade sweets crafted by his mother, Yuraima, for him to sell.
Emmanuel's story gained attention on social media thanks to activist Yureibys Torresilla, who shared an emotional post on Facebook urging the community to show solidarity.
Torresilla recounts observing the young boy over time, often seeing him weary from his efforts: "There are times I see him so exhausted, as if wishing someone would buy all his sweets so he could head home," she expressed.
This past Wednesday, Torresilla took action by purchasing the 38 unsold sweets from Emmanuel, paying 120 pesos each, and left him with the change, totaling 5,000 pesos. Yet, her gesture extended further.
The activist accompanied Emmanuel to his home and gave the sweets back to Yuraima, ensuring she wouldn't need to make more the following day.
"I bought the 38 sweets for 120 pesos each, but I went with him back home so his mom could receive the sweets I bought, sparing her from making new ones tomorrow," she explained.
With the money, Emmanuel could afford basic groceries. "Today, Emmanuel can buy a carton of eggs, maybe for breakfast," Torresilla noted, concluding her post with a poignant reflection on the gravity of the situation: "Sometimes, I am left speechless."
The activist acknowledges that Emmanuel's situation is not unique. "Emmanuel's story is not isolated in Cuba, especially here in Sancti Spíritus, but I'm struck by his demeanor, as if he's lived a lifetime though he's just starting out," she wrote.
Her appeal is straightforward: "If you see Emmanuel around, at least buy a sweet from him, lightening his burden bit by bit."
Child Labor in Cuba: A Growing Concern
The case of Emmanuel reflects a broader issue exacerbated by the economic crisis. In 2025, the Food Monitor Program warned that child labor is on the rise in Cuba amidst socio-economic and migratory challenges.
The organization highlighted that children selling food on Cuban streets face risks of violence and lack of protection, as the ongoing crisis forces them into adult roles.
Similar cases have been reported across various provinces: a 10-year-old selling coconuts on the street last June; Joelis, 14, selling polvorones in a park in Santiago de Cuba in April; and an 11-year-old collecting cans at dawn in Camagüey this month.
Understanding the Impact of Economic Crisis on Child Labor in Cuba
What challenges do children like Emmanuel face while working on the streets?
Children like Emmanuel face numerous challenges, including exposure to violence, lack of protection, and the burden of adopting adult responsibilities at a young age.
How widespread is child labor in Cuba?
Child labor is becoming increasingly common in Cuba, with reports of children engaging in street vending and other activities across several provinces, due to the economic crisis.
What actions can be taken to support children like Emmanuel?
Community support through small acts of kindness, such as buying from child vendors, can ease their burden. Additionally, broader societal efforts are needed to address the root causes of child labor.