A Cuban woman living in Houston, Texas, recently took to TikTok to showcase her impressive haul from Dollar Tree, where she spent around $60 to gather essentials for her family back in Cuba.
From over-the-counter medications and hygiene items to household goods, candies, and gum, she meticulously displayed everything she plans to send to her mother, mother-in-law, and sister on the island.
Identified on TikTok as @rosyg9105, the woman explained that she visited the well-known discount store following recommendations from fellow Cubans. The store’s pricing, ranging from $1.25 to $1.50 per item, allowed her to purchase a significant amount without breaking the bank.
"I went to Dollar Tree because I was told there were various items that could be sent to Cuba at a lower cost," she shared, while presenting her purchases.
Among the most noteworthy items were over-the-counter medications. She picked up two packs of six hydrocortisone cream tubes, bottles of antacids with 55 tablets each, and several packages of triple antibiotic ointment.
"You all know that in Cuba, medications, creams, ointments, and similar items are practically non-existent," she remarked, highlighting the challenges many families face in obtaining these essentials on the island.
Everyday Essentials and More
The shopping spree also included deodorants for both men and women, aloe vera soaps, intimate hygiene products, earplugs, nail glue that doesn't require a lamp, and eucalyptus-scented bath tablets.
Understanding the scarcity of soap in Cuba, she opted to purchase an extra package of it. "Since I know soap is quite scarce right now, I got them another package," she explained.
Yet, her cart wasn't solely filled with medication and personal care items. She took advantage of Dollar Tree's prices to add compressed sponges, stainless steel cleaning cloths, kitchen wipes, adhesive air fresheners, and ziplock bags to her collection.
A Touch of Nostalgia
No package to Cuba would be complete without a few treats. She included hair accessories, coffee candies, and bubble gum balls that sparked childhood memories.
"Do you remember these gum balls that were so popular in Cuba? They're bubble gums," she said nostalgically while showcasing the sweets.
This initiative underscores how many Cubans living abroad utilize discount stores to supply their families with basic necessities. The ongoing shortage of medications remains a significant challenge in Cuba. As of August 2026, it was reported that only 30% of essential medications were available, forcing numerous families to rely on assistance from relatives abroad.
This Cuban woman's experience is not unique. In July, another Cuban shared her Dollar Tree haul worth $113, intended for the island. In April, a different woman shared a $91 purchase for the same purpose.
Similarly, in November 2025, a Cuban woman amazed viewers by showcasing her $60 collection from both Walmart and Dollar Tree, demonstrating how these stores have become a go-to option for those seeking to support their families without spending excessively.
After revealing her purchases, the woman expressed satisfaction with everything she managed to buy for about $60 and encouraged others preparing packages for Cuba to explore the store's offerings.
"Honestly, there are so many affordable things that seemed perfect to send to Cuba," she asserted.
She also hinted at the possibility of sharing a second installment of her shopping spree if the video garners enough attention.
Shopping for Cuba: Questions and Answers
Why do Cubans buy from Dollar Tree to send items to Cuba?
Cubans often shop at Dollar Tree because it offers a variety of affordable items, making it possible to buy a large number of essential products without spending a lot of money—ideal for sending much-needed supplies back home.
What types of products are commonly sent to Cuba from the U.S.?
Common items sent to Cuba include over-the-counter medications, hygiene products, household goods, and treats like candies and snacks. These items are often scarce or expensive in Cuba.
How does the scarcity of items in Cuba affect families on the island?
The scarcity of items, particularly medications, significantly hampers the everyday life of families in Cuba. It forces them to rely on aid from relatives abroad to meet basic needs.