In a recent visit to Washington D.C., Mike Hammer, the Chief of Mission for the United States in Cuba, took the opportunity to address Congress about the island's dire situation and the Trump Administration's efforts to deliver $100 million in humanitarian aid to the Cuban people.
The U.S. Embassy in Cuba announced on Facebook this Wednesday that Hammer was joined by State Department officials during his time at the Capitol.
Among the highlighted initiatives, the Embassy pointed out the allocation of $100 million in humanitarian assistance through reliable organizations.
Hammer's appearance before Congress comes just over a week after he met with Secretary of State Marco Rubio in Washington. During their meeting, they discussed the latest developments in Cuba and the progress of the humanitarian aid package.
On that occasion, the Embassy noted that they talked about efforts to channel the $100 million via Cáritas and other trusted organizations, as well as Washington's support for the Cuban people's aspirations to "live in freedom and dignity."
Announced by Rubio in May, the humanitarian package was later detailed by Washington: $60 million would be directed through the Catholic Church, while another $40 million would be managed by trustworthy non-governmental organizations.
The aid began to take shape in July when the first shipment, consisting of 700 hygiene kits and 700 food modules, departed from Miami to Havana as part of the program.
The distribution was handled by Catholic Relief Services, Cáritas Cuba, and networks of the Catholic Church, deliberately excluding the Cuban government from the process.
Hammer, known for his grassroots engagement with everyday Cubans, has also visited sites to verify the delivery of these resources.
In early August, he visited beneficiary families in Bejucal, engaging with recipients of the packages and volunteers from Cáritas.
His itinerary also included a stop in Alquízar, Artemisa, to personally assess the distribution of food, hygiene products, and other supplies to vulnerable families.
FAQ on U.S. Humanitarian Aid to Cuba
Who is responsible for distributing the humanitarian aid in Cuba?
The aid is being distributed by Catholic Relief Services, Cáritas Cuba, and networks of the Catholic Church, without the involvement of the Cuban government.
What is the composition of the aid package sent to Cuba?
The aid package includes 700 hygiene kits and 700 food modules, aimed at assisting the Cuban population.
How is the $100 million humanitarian aid being allocated?
$60 million is being channeled through the Catholic Church, and $40 million is distributed via reputable non-governmental organizations.