In the wake of the devastation and institutional neglect following Hurricane Melissa, a wave of citizen-led solidarity has swept through eastern Cuba.
Neighbors, expatriates, and social media users are independently organizing to assist families who have lost everything. Among those affected are two young mothers from San Germán in Holguín Province, whose situations highlight both the destruction and the precarious living conditions faced by much of the country.
In the Facebook group "San Germán-Ofertas," user Hassan Lahera expressed gratitude for the donations received for Yarima Álvarez, a mother of three from the Felicia 1 community.
"A heartfelt thanks to everyone who donated to the young woman from Felicia 1. She sends her blessings to all. Anyone wishing to help can message me privately; any assistance will be greatly appreciated due to her critical needs," he stated.
Photographs show the aid delivered, including food, clothing, and shoes. Comments on his post reveal both the community's empathy and frustration over the lack of official response.
"The government needs to build her a house; it's in terrible condition," wrote a local resident. Another added, "In these times, what makes a difference is this kind of support."
Heartbreaking Stories of Loss
Perhaps the most heartrending case is that of Rachel Torres Mas, another mother of two whose home was reduced to rubble following river floods.
In the Facebook group "Revolico San Germán," Lahera detailed the family's dire situation.
"This young mother and her two small children were left homeless. Their house and possessions were destroyed by the cyclone and flooding," he explained.
"They live in the countryside of Sain," he noted.
Images depict a bleak scene: soaked mattresses, broken furniture, collapsed walls, and ceilings. It's heart-wrenching to see Rachel and her children trying to salvage their belongings from the debris, like schoolbooks that the little girl laid out in the sun to dry.
Dozens of people commented, offering clothes, food, and money, attempting to fill the gap left by an unresponsive government.
"You can see they have nothing, not even a home. The priority should be a room, for God's sake!" and "These people need a home, not just a handout of 10,000 pesos," were among the comments. Another read, "It's a sad reality for the average Cuban, trying to recover everything they acquired through hard work."
A Broader Humanitarian Crisis
The scenes in Holguín are just a glimpse of the humanitarian crisis affecting thousands of families in eastern Cuba. Torrential rains have devastated entire communities in San Germán, Báguanos, Contramaestre, and Velasco, where many homes have been submerged or rendered uninhabitable.
Recently, a video shared by Martí Noticias went viral, capturing a woman crying in front of her flooded home, comforted by a relative's words that have become a symbol of hope: "Don't cry, we are alive."
This everyday yet painful scene encapsulates the tragedy of a people facing natural disasters without resources, infrastructure, or effective state support.
While authorities "assess the damage" and make promises of aid that seldom materialize, it is the citizens who rise to the occasion to help their neighbors.
In Havana, initiatives like Aliento de Vida and Palomas are collecting food and medicines to send to the east, while Cuban expatriates organize fundraising campaigns from Miami.
The official response, however, remains limited to generic statements and vague promises. There's a lack of transparency in the distribution of international aid, and no urgent solutions for those sleeping on mud or under makeshift roofs.
Instead, it is the Cuban people themselves—often impoverished as well—who bear the burden of sustaining the country through empathy and self-management.
Hurricane Melissa has left a trail of destruction that the government seems unable—or unwilling—to fully address.
Yet amid the suffering, the Cuban people show that their solidarity is stronger than any storm.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Situation in Holguín
What is the current situation in Holguín following Hurricane Melissa?
Holguín is facing a humanitarian crisis with many families losing their homes and belongings due to the hurricane and flooding. The community is stepping up to provide aid where the government has fallen short.
How are Cuban citizens helping those affected?
Cubans are organizing through social media to collect and distribute donations, including food, clothing, and financial assistance, to support affected families.
What role is the government playing in the recovery efforts?
The government has largely been criticized for its lack of effective response and transparency. Most of the relief efforts are being led by citizens and grassroots organizations.