Luis García, originally from the town of San Juan de los Yeras in Villa Clara, Cuba, made a daring journey to the United States in 1999. He arrived aboard a boat carrying 20 other passengers, a story he shared with the TikTok profile @conductadade, which highlights the stories of Miami's homeless population. "I came to the United States in 1999, on a boat, leaving from Villa Clara, Santa Clara, with 20 people on a 21-foot boat," Luis recounted.
Despite growing up in a loving family with strong values, Luis acknowledged making some poor choices: "My life in Cuba was never bad because everyone who knows me knows I come from a good family, a prepared family... but unfortunately, I loved the streets too much and started making bad decisions."
Having personally experienced homelessness in the United States, Luis now dedicates himself to assisting others facing similar challenges. In a video shared by the Conducta project, he is seen distributing food and engaging with homeless individuals, mostly in English, showing empathy and warmth.
"Luis arrived from Cuba on a boat and learned firsthand what it means to live on the streets in Miami. Today, in his spare time, he supports various organizations to help those who are going through what he once did," the publication noted. They also announced that the full video detailing his journey would soon be available.
Luis's story joins other narratives shared by this profile, including that of Mayra, a Cuban-American woman who ended up homeless after losing her daughter in an accident; María del Carmen, a 67-year-old from Villa Clara; and Yuli, known as La China de San Antonio, who was recognized by former colleagues and neighbors after appearing on social media.
Other highlighted cases include former Charanga Habanera vocalist David Montes de Oca, who began rehabilitation after living on the streets, and Orlando Hernández, a Cuban from Regla who has lived under a Miami bridge for years.
The publication has sparked numerous reactions of support, encouragement, and pride from fellow Cubans who relate to Luis or his hometown. Comments such as "Blessings," "We're from the same land," "My little Villa Clara," and "Thank you for helping others" feature prominently among user messages.
Understanding Homelessness in Miami's Cuban Community
What challenges do Cuban immigrants face in the United States?
Cuban immigrants often face challenges such as cultural adaptation, language barriers, and finding employment. These issues can be compounded by a lack of social support, leading some to experience homelessness.
How is the community helping the homeless in Miami?
The community in Miami is actively involved in providing support through various organizations and initiatives that offer food, shelter, and counseling services to the homeless population.