A campaign to assist an elderly woman from the small town of Juan Vicente in Mayarí, Holguín, has gained significant attention on social media following the release of a video showing the devastation to her home caused by Hurricane Melissa.
The video was shared on the Facebook group Rebolico Mayarí by Elchaco Romero, a young man from Holguín currently living in the United States. He expressed his intention to "form a small brigade to assist this elderly lady" whose "house was demolished by the cyclone in Juan Vicente." He called for support "to purchase zinc, beams, boards, and to help rebuild her house and buy her some cooking pots."
In the footage, Pilar, an elderly woman, is seen amidst the ruins of her destroyed home, speaking with two young visitors. Overcome with emotion, she asks, "Where will I live, my dear, where? I spend my entire day crying, seeing the state I'm in, seeing my house."
One of the visitors hands her some cash, saying it is "from Leo and Gladys Zapata's grandchildren," explaining that it is "for you to buy food, my dear, at least, you know? Buy some food and at least feed yourself, and if you need medication." Pilar, in tears, responds, "Today I didn't, I couldn't buy lunch. I look at my house like this, I can't sleep."
The video sparked hundreds of supportive comments, expressions of outrage, and offers to help. Many users expressed a desire to contribute financially or with building materials, while others criticized the lack of institutional support for the elderly in rural areas and urged authorities to provide secure shelter.
Amidst the wave of solidarity, Elchaco Romero mentioned in the comments that he is compiling a list of donors and will share updates on purchasing materials to rebuild Pilar's home.
Pilar's situation, which has deeply touched numerous Cubans both on the island and abroad, highlights a stark reality that contrasts with official statements from leader Miguel Díaz-Canel. He claimed that "no one would be left to their fate" during the recovery phase after Hurricane Melissa. In a social media post, Díaz-Canel stated that "over 120,000 Cubans remain protected" and resources are being distributed for housing, with a preliminary report of "45,282 affected."
Nevertheless, cases like Pilar's, who lost her home and says she "can't sleep at night" due to her living conditions, underscore the dire situation faced by many in rural areas of Holguín and other eastern Cuban provinces.
Frequently Asked Questions About Hurricane Melissa's Impact
How can I help Pilar and others affected by Hurricane Melissa?
You can join the efforts by donating money or construction materials. Check local social media groups, like Rebolico Mayarí, for organized campaigns and contact individuals like Elchaco Romero who are coordinating relief efforts.
What is the response of the Cuban government to the disaster?
The Cuban government, led by Miguel Díaz-Canel, claims to have provided protection and resources to over 120,000 people and states that housing assistance has begun. However, many affected individuals, like Pilar, report a lack of support.