The Cuban regime has announced the opening of a Provincial Social Protection Center in Villa Clara, designed to accommodate approximately 60 individuals labeled by authorities as having "wandering behaviors." This move comes amidst rising controversy over the official denial of homelessness in Cuba. Susely Morfa González, the First Secretary of the Communist Party in Villa Clara, portrayed the center as "a work of infinite love," aiming to provide refuge and care for those living on the streets.
In her social media statements, she emphasized that the facility "will be a home where no one is left helpless." However, the center's inauguration closely follows remarks by former Minister of Labor and Social Security, Marta Elena Feitó Cabrera, who recently denied the presence of homeless people in the nation.
During a parliamentary session, Feitó Cabrera described individuals referred to as "beggars" as those choosing an "easy lifestyle," claiming they are merely "disguised" to earn money without formal work. The comments sparked criticism on Morfa's post, with many expressing skepticism about the regime's claimed solutions while failing to address the root causes of homelessness in Cuba.
Numerous online users argued that the center would barely scratch the surface of the crisis. "Provide public restrooms and food on the corners, and you'd solve more issues, because 60 isn't even 1% of the population in critical condition, but you won't admit that, will you?" one commenter noted.
As of now, it remains unclear if those housed in the center will have indefinite stays or how they will be admitted. Previously, in a controversial statement, Feitó Cabrera mocked individuals rummaging through trash, often called "divers," accusing them of illegal recycling or violating self-employment regulations. "That's not true either," she contended, regarding claims these people seek food in garbage. "These are patterns being imposed on us."
These statements starkly contrast with data from the Cuban Observatory of Human Rights (OCDH), which reports that 89% of Cuban families live in extreme poverty. Additionally, international reports rank Cuba as the poorest country in Latin America, with a poverty rate of 72%, and the most miserable globally according to economist Steve H. Hanke's annual index.
In February of this year, Minister Feitó Cabrera had acknowledged the existence of 1,236 communities in dire conditions during a meeting with President Miguel Díaz-Canel, casting doubt on her recent public assertions. Although authorities herald the establishment of this center as a step forward in social protection, many citizens and independent observers view it as a contradiction between official rhetoric and the stark reality visible on Cuban streets.
Frequently Asked Questions about Cuba's Homelessness Issues
What is the purpose of the new center in Villa Clara?
The newly established center in Villa Clara aims to house around 60 individuals identified as having "wandering behaviors," providing them with refuge and care.
How has the Cuban government addressed homelessness?
The Cuban government has recently opened a center in Villa Clara, but continues to deny the existence of homelessness, attributing such conditions to personal lifestyle choices rather than systemic issues.
What are independent observers saying about the homelessness situation in Cuba?
Independent observers and citizens criticize the Cuban government's approach as insufficient and contradictory, highlighting the vast disparity between official narratives and the visible reality of poverty.