In the face of adversity, Cuban citizens are rallying to support a hearing-impaired mother living in dire conditions in the municipality of Cárdenas, Matanzas. Miriam Toral Díaz, whose home is a dilapidated wooden structure on Ayllón, between Minerva and Mercedes, has become the focus of a community-led fundraising effort on the "Cardenenses en Facebook" group. Her residence is described as "barely standing," prompting the call to action.
The initiative aims to gather $1,400 to undertake essential repairs, including the roof and walls, secure doors and windows, improve bathroom facilities, and acquire basic appliances like a refrigerator. The ultimate goal is to replace the damaged furniture and enhance the overall living conditions for Miriam and her family.
Living with a disability, Miriam is unable to work and relies on a meager pension of 3,000 CUP, which is insufficient to meet even the basic needs in today's Cuba. "She doesn't have a refrigerator and only has an electric stove for cooking. There's just one fan in the entire house, and the furniture is as worn out as the rest of the structure. The bathroom barely functions with a single toilet," detailed the Facebook page administrator.
Despite the hardships, Miriam remains resilient and devoted to her children's education and well-being. The ongoing fundraising effort aims to provide her with a safe and more comfortable living environment.
This family's story is not unique in Cuba, where housing conditions have reached a critical state. Many residents, like Sonia Rodríguez from Punta Gorda, Santiago de Cuba, endure living in precarious structures with no alternatives. Sonia, a 69-year-old who lost everything to Hurricane Sandy in 2012, has been struggling to pay for the small state-assigned house she received in 2018. Despite working as a custodian, she still owes 6,000 pesos (approximately $20) and continues to labor tirelessly to make ends meet.
For those willing to help, the fundraising organizers have shared contact information and payment details to facilitate contributions. Cuba's housing crisis is underscored by such stories of resilience and the community's collective effort to bring relief to families in need.
Understanding Cuba's Housing Crisis
What is the current housing situation in Cuba?
Many Cubans live in deteriorating structures with limited options for safe housing. The nation's ongoing economic struggles have exacerbated the issue, leaving numerous families in precarious living conditions.
How are communities responding to the housing crisis?
Communities have taken to social media and other platforms to organize fundraising efforts, seeking to provide immediate aid and improve living conditions for those most affected by the crisis.
What challenges do disabled individuals face in Cuba?
Disabled individuals often face additional difficulties due to limited work opportunities and inadequate social welfare support, leading to financial hardship and poor living conditions.