In Camagüey, two young sisters who regularly sell sweets on the streets to support their mother have captured the attention of social media, sparking a surge of donations after their story was shared online.
A content creator, known as Brayansiribilla Tonm, encountered the girls while they were working in the Parcaya area. He posted an initial video on Facebook where the girls explained their daily routine of selling sweets.
When asked about their motivation, one of the sisters stated, "It's to help my mom. To be able to buy food."
The video resonated widely, garnering over 221,000 views and nearly 19,000 reactions. "They are so young and already fighting for their lives; let's make sure this reaches as many people as possible," the creator wrote in his post.
The Unveiling of Their Living Conditions
Following the viral impact of the first video, the content creator visited the family's home and documented their living conditions in a second video, which received more than 109,000 views.
The footage revealed a room without a fan that the sisters share with their mother, a dirt floor, a rudimentary bathroom, and a home lacking a proper kitchen. The family also does not have a phone with an active line.
The mother clarified that the girls are not forced to work. According to the creator, they voluntarily sell sweets to support their mother and help put food on the table.
A third follow-up video indicated that the family has begun receiving donations, and despite their hardships, the home was neat and tidy.
Community Response and Broader Context
Brayansiribilla Tonm encouraged anyone willing to assist to contact him via the numbers 55898008 and 52769225.
This case highlights a growing trend of similar situations documented across Cuba this year, such as the story of two boys, aged 13 and 11, selling bread on the streets to aid their families.
In July, social media brought attention to Emmanuel, a young boy traversing the streets of Sancti Spíritus selling sweets, sparking widespread support.
Throughout the same month, videos circulated showing Cuban children selling fruit and pushing carts of avocados in Havana, all striving to support their families amid the ongoing economic crisis.
Recently, officials in Santiago de Cuba acknowledged an increase in instances of children and adolescents involved in begging, announcing ongoing efforts for prevention and control, with a focus on central city areas.
The Cuban Conflict Observatory noted 71 reports of child labor and begging in 2025; by 2026, these cases have surged in provinces like Havana, Santiago de Cuba, Camagüey, Las Tunas, and Sancti Spíritus.
In June, the Union of Young Communists denied the existence of child labor in Cuba, a statement that led to widespread outrage online.
In response to the lack of state intervention, citizen solidarity and non-governmental organizations have stepped in to fill the gap. The Swiss NGO Camaquito announced a $25,000 initiative this week to support 250 families in Santiago de Cuba and Camagüey with food, medicine, hygiene products, and rechargeable fans, prioritizing those in particularly difficult situations.
"The reality for many people in Cuba is extremely challenging. Therefore, it is crucial for us not just to talk about it, but to provide concrete and direct assistance to those in need," stated Mark Kuster, director of Camaquito.
Understanding Child Labor and Support in Cuba
Why are children selling sweets and other items in Cuba?
Children in Cuba often sell sweets and other items to support their families financially, especially amid the country's economic crisis. This work is frequently done voluntarily by the children to help with household expenses.
How can people help families in need in Cuba?
Individuals can assist by donating directly to families or through organizations like Camaquito, which provide essential resources such as food, medicine, and hygiene products to families in dire situations.
What actions are being taken to address child labor in Cuba?
Authorities in Cuba have recognized the issue and are implementing efforts to monitor and control child labor, particularly in central urban areas, although the effectiveness and reach of these measures are questionable.