In anticipation of Hurricane Melissa, Cuban authorities distributed a limited assortment of food items to residents over 65 in the municipality of Mella, Santiago de Cuba, claiming it as part of the state’s "assistance" program.
Journalist Mario J. Pentón took to social media to reveal images of these so-called “food packages.” The photos and accompanying messages highlighted the contents: a pack of Criollos cigarettes, a can of El Norteño sardines, a package of spaghetti, and a bag containing rice or another unidentified product.
Pentón shared a message he received stating, “Hello Mario, this is what they gave people in Mella to weather the hurricane.” He added a viral commentary questioning the leadership of Miguel Díaz-Canel, which read:
“This is the answer to Díaz-Canel's question: ‘What failed state could organize and do everything we are doing in a difficult moment like this?’ The sardines are only for those over 65.”
Many online users expressed outrage and irony over the situation, pointing out that in other provinces, even the monthly rice allocation hasn't been distributed while stores selling in foreign currencies remain stocked with goods inaccessible to the average Cuban.
Additional reports indicate that aside from the modest package shown, only a pound of sugar was distributed, with a previous allocation of a kilogram of rice for children under six.
This social media post adds to the mounting discontent over the regime’s neglect of its most vulnerable citizens, even during national emergencies.
As Miguel Díaz-Canel boasts about the socialist state’s “organization,” Cubans counter that the only genuine aid comes “by the mercy of God,” as one local put it.
Questions and Answers about Cuban Government's Aid during Hurricane Melissa
What items were included in the food package distributed in Santiago de Cuba?
The package included a pack of Criollos cigarettes, a can of El Norteño sardines, a package of spaghetti, and a bag with either rice or another unidentified product.
Who received these food packages in Santiago de Cuba?
The packages were distributed to residents over 65 years old in the municipality of Mella, Santiago de Cuba.
How did the Cuban public react to the distribution of food packages?
The public reacted with indignation and sarcasm, criticizing the insufficiency of the aid and the continued sale of goods in foreign currencies that are inaccessible to most Cubans.