On Sunday, the Archdiocese of Santiago de Cuba announced that Caritas Parish volunteers in El Cobre distributed 695 food packages to families impacted by Hurricane Melissa, which caused significant destruction in this eastern province locality.
According to a Facebook post by the archdiocese, a team of 120 volunteers, organized across 29 mission houses—an increase of eight from the previous day—transformed their homes into food preparation and distribution centers, coordinated by the Catholic Church.
Caritas organizers expressed gratitude for the support from their benefactors and emphasized that they maintain a documented record of the food contributions received and distributed at each center.
"All glory goes to God," they declared in their social media message.
El Cobre was severely affected by Hurricane Melissa. The heavy rain triggered a landslide, trapping 17 individuals who were later rescued by emergency teams.
The storm also inflicted serious damage on the Shrine of Our Lady of Charity, one of Cuba's most iconic churches.
Recently, following the offer of assistance from Marco Rubio, the U.S. Secretary of State, the Catholic Church has played a pivotal role in ensuring that these donations reach the hurricane victims directly, bypassing the Cuban regime.
The Conference of Catholic Bishops of Cuba confirmed on Sunday that the U.S. aid, valued at three million dollars, will be channeled through the Catholic Church rather than through the Cuban government.
Key Questions About Hurricane Relief in El Cobre
How many food packages did Caritas distribute to families in El Cobre?
Caritas distributed a total of 695 food packages to families affected by Hurricane Melissa in El Cobre.
What role did the Catholic Church play in the distribution of aid?
The Catholic Church coordinated the efforts of 120 volunteers who organized into 29 mission houses for food preparation and distribution, ensuring that aid reached those in need directly.
What damages did Hurricane Melissa cause in El Cobre?
Hurricane Melissa caused serious damages, including a landslide trapping 17 people and severe damage to the Shrine of Our Lady of Charity.