The story of Dayan Santiago and his partner, Janet, two Cubans who have been living on the streets of Miami for more than a year, has recently gained widespread attention on social media. Their plight was highlighted by the charitable project Conducta, which shared their decision to enter a rehabilitation program.
In a recent video posted on the TikTok account @conductadade, the couple announced their plan to join a program in West Palm Beach. Dayan expressed gratitude, saying, "Well, folks, we're here again. Thanks for the attention given to the video. We're ready to recover; they've arranged a program for us in West Palm Beach. Thanks to Damián and the Conducta team."
During his message, Dayan also encouraged others with family or friends struggling with addiction to seek help: "If you have friends or family dealing with addiction issues, reach out to Conducta. They truly help. They come here, roll up their sleeves, and assist. If it's your son or grandson, call Conducta, and they'll help. Love."
A New Chapter Begins
While dining with team members, Dayan shared a personal struggle: "You want to know something? We've gone so long without eating that when you chew, your jaw muscles... I don't know if it's happened to you, but after not eating or exercising the jaw for a long time, when you eat, you bite your cheek because the muscles aren't ready."
Conducta's post read: "Dayan and Janet have spent over a year on the streets of Miami. Today, they chose to start a new life together. They're prepared to enter rehabilitation and leave the pain behind. Join them on this new journey."
From the Streets to Hope
Before this video announcing their intention to change, the project shared an earlier video featuring Dayan at an improvised camp near 32nd Avenue and 46th Street in Miami. "Good afternoon, folks. I'm Dayan Santiago, from Regla. I'm 34," he introduces himself.
He shows his surroundings: "Look, Conducta, over there lives someone, under the umbrella, another person. Look at all the stuff Conducta left here: food, soda, pudding, you know, fruit punch. See over there? It's like a bike workshop. Like everyone on the street, they're biking around. Here they fix bikes. That's the presidential suite over there."
Dayan explains how many people reside there: "Living here, there are like four, maybe five or six, plus a girl who comes by, but tons of people pass through. This hallway is well-known."
According to Conducta's description, after recording the video, Dayan committed to meeting them daily. "Our goal is to help him enter rehab and offer a new chance at life," they wrote, adding that donations of food and drinks were made possible through the support of Progressive Medical Center.
Community Response and Support
The story of Dayan and Janet has sparked thousands of comments on social media, blending solidarity, memories, pain, skepticism, and the desire to help. A woman identifying herself as Dayan's mother commented on the initial video: "This young man is my son. I've been advised to contact Conducta. I sent a message request with a broken heart and am very grateful for the support you're providing."
Responding to critical comments, she said, "My heart, I've done a lot for my son. It's more complicated than you think. My greatest refuge has been this TikTok platform which keeps me occupied and supporting others. Remember, a mentally strong mother is what my son needs right now."
In another message, she added, "Of course, I go there and to worse places. He was home for two months, but he's had relapses. He's a good boy and loves me, but he's trapped in this addiction."
Among the comments, several people mentioned knowing Dayan from Cuba, especially near the Regla refinery. Others recalled Janet and described how both "were different" before living on the street.
Messages of encouragement included: "God bless them and help them move forward," "It's heartbreaking to see two young people like this," "What amazes me is seeing someone from the streets express themselves better than many influencers," and "God is giving them a chance."
However, some expressed doubts about the process: "They'll leave after a week, just wait," "It's tough, but hopefully, they can overcome it." Others inquired about ways to help or even offered to contact them directly if they reached West Palm Beach.
Their story is not unique among those shared by Conducta. Recently, the project has highlighted other Cubans living on the streets of Miami, such as Yuli, known as La China de San Antonio, who was also recognized by locals and former colleagues. They have also documented the cases of María del Carmen, an elderly homeless woman, and Bárbara, a mother of newborn twins.
The profile has become a regular source for bringing visibility to individuals living on society's fringes, particularly Cuban migrants caught in cycles of addiction, illness, violence, or abandonment.
Regarding Dayan and Janet, the project stated: "They are determined to transform their lives, and this is the first step towards a new opportunity." Dayan summed it up: "All I need is to clean myself up because I have the will."
Common Questions About Dayan and Janet's Journey
How did Dayan and Janet come to live on the streets of Miami?
Dayan and Janet's struggles with addiction and lack of support led them to live on the streets for over a year, as shared in their story highlighted by the Conducta project.
What role does Conducta play in helping people like Dayan and Janet?
Conducta is a charitable project that documents and supports individuals living on the margins, particularly those struggling with addiction. They provide resources, guidance, and assistance to enter rehabilitation programs.
How can others assist Dayan and Janet in their rehabilitation journey?
Individuals interested in helping can reach out to Conducta for information on donations or support initiatives. They can also offer encouragement and understanding through social media platforms.