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Cuban Woman Prepares Meal for Elderly Neighbor: "Grateful to God for the Chance to Help Others"

Saturday, June 28, 2025 by Emma Garcia

A young Cuban woman living in Matanzas has once again captured attention on social media by sharing a video showcasing her efforts to prepare a meal for an elderly neighbor who lives alone and lacks family support. The woman, known as Sheyla (@sheyreyes032 on TikTok), detailed in the video her decision to make homemade croquettes with tuna and cheese, complemented by a small can of tomato puree and a packet of spaghetti, as a way to extend the help and make the food last longer.

"She is an elderly woman who lives by herself and has no family to assist her," Sheyla explained while demonstrating the step-by-step process of making the croquettes, using YouTube tutorials and whatever ingredients she could find. She also expressed gratitude towards her partner, Javier, for obtaining flour, which she didn't have at home. "When you do things with love and good intentions, everything turns out well," she stated.

The video sparked numerous reactions. Many users praised the young woman's act of kindness: "May God bless you with health," "Hands that give are never empty," "What a big heart you have," were some of the positive comments she received. However, some criticized her cooking technique or questioned why she didn't show the recipient: "Those aren't croquettes," "The flour should be cooked first," "Why don't you show the neighbor?"

Sheyla responded that she chose not to film the elderly woman out of respect, as not everyone feels comfortable being recorded while receiving help. "She was super happy, and they say I did a great job on them. I'm thrilled and thankful to God for giving me the chance to help others, even with limited resources," she expressed in the video description.

This is not the first time Sheyla has been at the center of a viral act of empathy involving her retired neighbor, a gesture that has touched thousands online. In another instance, she demonstrated how she used her generator during power outages to help neighbors charge their phones and lamps.

Stories like Sheyla's have become increasingly common in Cuba, where shortages and the decline of the social assistance system have led many to rely on each other. These small acts highlight the importance of solidarity amid challenging circumstances.

The Impact of Community Support in Cuba

Why did Sheyla choose to help her elderly neighbor?

Sheyla chose to help her elderly neighbor because she lives alone and lacks family support, demonstrating empathy and community spirit.

How did Sheyla prepare the meal for her neighbor?

Sheyla prepared homemade croquettes with tuna and cheese, accompanied by tomato puree and spaghetti, using YouTube tutorials for guidance.

What was the reaction on social media to Sheyla's gesture?

The reaction on social media was mixed, with many praising her kindness while others critiqued her cooking technique or the absence of the neighbor in the video.

How are stories like Sheyla's reflective of the situation in Cuba?

Stories like Sheyla's reflect the growing reliance on community support in Cuba, where shortages and a failing social assistance system are prevalent.

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