In response to the extensive damage caused by Hurricane Melissa in eastern Cuba, the community initiative "Dar es dar" kickstarted a solidarity campaign on Wednesday to gather aid for those impacted by the storm's passage.
Activist Mabel Cuesta took to Facebook, urging the public to donate food, clothing, medicines, and essential items. These donations will be sent to the provinces of Santiago de Cuba, Holguín, Granma, and Guantánamo, where countless families have lost everything.
"Collecting aid in Havana to send to the affected areas in the eastern part of the country... Share and help if you can," reads the message circulating on social media platforms.
Grassroots Initiative Fills Governmental Void
This campaign highlights the community's solidarity spirit amid the crisis, contrasting sharply with the government's slow response and silence.
In a setting plagued by power outages, shortages, and the breakdown of essential services, citizens have resorted to self-managing humanitarian aid, navigating the restrictions imposed by the state's control over donation distribution.
Support from Both Inside and Outside Cuba
According to the campaign's organizers, additional initiatives from abroad will be announced in the coming hours and days to channel material and financial support from the Cuban diaspora.
Dozens of social media users—both in Cuba and internationally—have expressed willingness to send supplies or raise funds for the hardest-hit areas.
"Stay alert," the organizers emphasize, noting that every small contribution can save lives amid the humanitarian crisis facing the eastern region of the country.
Hurricane Melissa has left a dire situation in eastern Cuba, with power outages, infrastructure damage, and isolated communities exacerbating communication challenges and hindering the efforts of rescue and recovery teams in the most affected areas.
Frequently Asked Questions about Hurricane Melissa Relief Efforts
What is the "Dar es dar" initiative?
"Dar es dar" is a community project in Cuba that has launched a campaign to collect aid for those affected by Hurricane Melissa in eastern Cuba.
How can people contribute to the relief efforts?
People can contribute by donating food, clothing, medicines, and basic necessities, which will be sent to the affected provinces.
What challenges are the affected areas facing?
The affected areas are dealing with power outages, infrastructure damage, and isolation, which complicate communication and rescue efforts.
Are there international efforts to support the relief campaign?
Yes, the organizers have indicated that additional initiatives from the Cuban diaspora abroad will be announced to provide further support.