Cuban comedian Limay Blanco, known for promoting the Christian ministry Cristo Cambia Vidas, recently shared a video on his social media platforms discussing an encounter he had with someone who received a house from his project. He recounted how a neighborhood resident informed him that a woman, along with her son, was looking for him, claiming to be one of the recipients of the houses his ministry provided. The woman reportedly said, "The crappy house Limay gave me," expressing dissatisfaction.
Reflecting on this, Blanco considered confronting her by offering to take back the house and give it to someone else. However, he recalled the biblical story of Jesus healing ten lepers, where only one returned to express gratitude. “What’s harder: giving away a house or healing a lifelong illness?” he pondered. He concluded, “If Jesus experienced this, what can I expect?” Despite the lack of appreciation, Blanco vowed to continue his philanthropic work without expecting thanks, admitting that while it hurts, he has learned a valuable lesson. "I will keep doing it, never expecting a reward, but it hurts, it hurts," he said.
The video, shared on Instagram and TikTok, sparked numerous reactions from supporters defending Blanco and commending his charitable efforts. One TikTok user commented, "Feed a dog for a day, and it will thank you forever; feed a human all their life, and they’ll forget you the next day." Another follower remarked, "You have a good heart. Blessings, brother, you have given me encouragement."
Religious messages of comfort also poured in: "God blesses the cheerful giver," "Do good without looking at whom," "Christ was betrayed but never stopped loving," and "Your blessings aren’t from men." Cuban singer Yulién Oviedo chimed in, saying, "Cubans are the most ungrateful people on the planet. Keep doing good, and the one above will place his children where they belong."
Limay, who no longer provides houses due to some recipients selling them, explained that this has led to a decrease in donations. Through Cristo Cambia Vidas, he has distributed over 40 homes and numerous other forms of aid to those in need across various Cuban provinces.
Continuing the Mission Despite Challenges
In another instance, Blanco was moved when a woman living in makeshift housing in El Tamarindo donated food to another mother in need. Despite these challenges, he continues his charitable work by organizing birthday celebrations for vulnerable children. "It's three in the morning, and I'm not sleeping. I want to give that baby a nice birthday," he shared in the video.
Structural Poverty and Government Neglect
The cases handled by Limay’s ministry highlight the worsening housing conditions in Cuba and the growth of impoverished neighborhoods like El Tamarindo, where families live in makeshift homes without basic services. Instead of providing structural solutions, the regime has often resorted to forced evictions, as seen in 2020 in Cotorro and 2021 in Jamaica, Mayabeque. Meanwhile, individuals like Limay Blanco continue to fill the gaps left by a system that neglects its most vulnerable citizens.
Frequently Asked Questions About Limay Blanco's Philanthropy
Why did Limay Blanco stop giving houses?
Limay Blanco stopped providing houses because some recipients sold them, leading to a decrease in donations for his housing project.
What is the Cristo Cambia Vidas project?
Cristo Cambia Vidas is a Christian ministry led by Limay Blanco, which focuses on providing housing and aid to impoverished communities in Cuba.
How does Limay Blanco continue his charitable work?
Despite challenges, Limay Blanco continues his charitable work by organizing birthday parties for vulnerable children and other forms of aid.