A Cuban woman living in the United States took to TikTok to showcase the bulk items she purchased to send to her family in Cuba, highlighting the severe shortages plaguing the nation. "Hey folks, if you're planning a trip to Cuba, let me show you what I buy here. It's all to send to Cuba," explained the young woman, known as @lilyperez_98 on TikTok.
In her video, she displayed a variety of goods, such as oil packages, seasoning, toothpaste, sardines, sausages, and cookies. She opted for canned items, she explained, to ensure they don't spoil during transit. "The great thing about this type of store is that everything is sold in bulk, making it much easier than buying items one by one at different stores," she noted as she packed her purchases into her car's trunk.
She emphasized the necessity of sending canned foods like sardines, which she described as "a delicacy," and pointed out the difficulty in obtaining basic necessities such as toothpaste and oil in Cuba.
The video quickly went viral across social media, garnering supportive comments from other Cubans abroad who face similar challenges when sending aid to their families on the island.
Common Challenges for Cuban Expatriates
Why do Cubans living abroad send bulk items back to Cuba?
Cubans living abroad often send bulk items to help their families cope with the severe shortages of basic goods in Cuba. Buying in bulk is more efficient and ensures that the items can sustain their families over a longer period.
What types of products are typically sent to Cuba?
Commonly sent items include canned foods, toiletries, and other non-perishable goods that are difficult to find in Cuba, such as toothpaste, cooking oil, and seasonings.