A Cuban mother, desperate to feed her three young children, appeared at the doorstep of comedian and philanthropist Limay Blanco in Havana, pleading for food. The touching scene was shared by Limay himself on social media, where he expressed his frustration over the lack of resources to help all those in need. "I'm in the same or worse situation than you," Limay stated in the video, emphasizing that he lacked money and substantial food supplies at home. The woman, holding one of her children, stressed that she wasn’t seeking cash, just something to eat. "From where? I don’t have," he initially replied, showing a sign on his door that read: “Notice: I am unable to attend to anyone right now. God bless you.”
Despite his constraints, Limay invited her inside to see what he could offer. Although he didn’t have enough rice to share, he provided confections leftover from a recent event hosted by his ministry, which had fed over 300 people. The woman mentioned she resides in Guanabacoa.
Struggles and Support for a Needy Family
Hours later, Limay went live to discuss the case in more detail. He admitted feeling "stressed and exhausted" by the demands of providing aid and disclosed that this woman had previously received assistance, including baby supplies, clothing, food, and toys. Her living conditions are dire; she receives 3,000 pesos monthly (1,000 per child), and her husband abandoned her after moving to Brazil. Limay dismissed criticisms of her appearance and her having three children: “Children are not a curse. They are a blessing.”
He also announced plans to host an event this Saturday to publicly support the mother and provide her with food acquired through donations following the video’s release. He encouraged those willing to help to contact him directly through private messages to arrange contributions.
Limay Blanco's Ongoing Philanthropic Efforts
Throughout his work with the ministry “Cristo Cambia Vidas,” Limay has delivered 46 homes and aims to complete the 48th if sufficient funds can be raised. “I might not be able to give you a tank of water, but I can offer you a small cup, with much love,” he affirms, driven by a strong belief in his mission. However, his efforts haven’t been free from setbacks: last May, he was hurt by reports of a woman, who had received a house, disparaging the aid: “What a crappy house Limay gave me.” Nonetheless, he remains committed to helping without expecting gratitude, valuing the lesson learned as the true reward.
Limay has repeatedly been moved by acts of solidarity, such as in January, when a woman living in a makeshift home in the El Tamarindo neighborhood donated food to another needy mother, showcasing that even amidst hardship, some are willing to share the little they possess.
The Larger Picture of Poverty in Cuba
Scenes like that of this mother of three underscore the structural poverty and state neglect impacting countless Cuban families. While the regime prioritizes forced evictions and campaigns against illegal settlements, citizens like Limay Blanco strive—with limited resources and donor assistance—to fill the gaps left by a system that overlooks its most vulnerable.
Frequently Asked Questions about Limay Blanco's Humanitarian Work
What inspired Limay Blanco to start his charity work?
Limay Blanco was inspired to start his charity work by witnessing the dire conditions many Cubans face, and his strong belief in helping those in need through his ministry "Cristo Cambia Vidas."
How many homes has Limay Blanco provided through his ministry?
Limay Blanco has provided 46 homes so far and is working towards completing the 48th, pending the availability of funds.
How can people contribute to Limay Blanco's efforts?
People can contribute to Limay Blanco's efforts by reaching out to him directly via private messages to arrange donations and support his humanitarian initiatives.