In the aftermath of Hurricane Melissa, which has plunged much of eastern Cuba into darkness, the story of Humberto Milán from Río Cauto in Granma has touched the hearts of many in his community.
While most households remain without power or resources, Milán has chosen to open his home, offering free electricity so neighbors can charge their devices, expecting nothing in return.
"In tough times like these, we need more people like my uncle, who allows anyone in need to charge their equipment at no cost," wrote his niece Annelis Álvarez on the Facebook group Revolico Río Cauto.
"Anyone who needs to can come by without any problem. Hours... 4:00 pm to 6:00 pm," she added, in a post that quickly garnered grateful comments.
Both neighbors and social media users have been quick to praise Humberto's generosity.
"These are the kind of people the community needs in these situations. Thanks and blessings to this great man," wrote a local father.
Another user pointedly noted: "Thanks for such a beautiful gesture. In Mabay and Julia, we can't say the same: here, if you don't pay, you can't charge your devices."
The Spirit of Solidarity Amidst Neglect
Humberto Milán's simple yet profoundly human act of kindness joins other similar gestures of solidarity emerging from the hardest-hit communities in Granma and Holguín. The devastation left by Hurricane Melissa has left thousands without shelter, electricity, or water.
Dargel Rosales Martínez, a young man from Guisa, Granma, also offered his electric generator to the community so they could power up phones, tablets, flashlights, lamps, and fans for young children. In his case, the fuel was donated by an anonymous friend.
These acts stand out in a nation where people are enduring the worst crisis in decades. The hurricane has only exacerbated an already dire situation: countless families have lost their homes or possessions, and rebuilding is nearly impossible given current wages and the scarcity of materials.
A Struggle Against the Odds
Flooded streets, toppled utility poles, and homes reduced to rubble create a bleak landscape that starkly contrasts with official statements about recovery efforts.
Despite optimistic government pronouncements, the national electrical system remains in shambles, with entire circuits down and infrastructure repairs far from complete.
In many rural areas of eastern Cuba, the only available power comes from small, privately-owned generators, acquired with great sacrifice or through aid from relatives abroad. However, most Cubans do not have access to such resources.
Resilience in the Face of Scarcity
While the government continues to make promises, the reality is that citizens themselves are managing to sustain the nation through ingenuity, effort, and solidarity.
Individuals like Humberto Milán show that even in the deepest darkness, light can emerge from the people's will and empathy, rather than state plans.
Every afternoon from 4:00 to 6:00 pm in Río Cauto, people gather at his home. There are no speeches or slogans. Just Cubans who, amid disaster, find a spark in a neighbor's generosity that the government continues to deny them.
FAQs on Community Support in Post-Hurricane Cuba
How are Cubans coping with the lack of electricity after the hurricane?
Many Cubans are relying on the generosity of neighbors who have access to private generators. These individuals are providing free electricity to the community to charge essential devices.
What challenges do Cubans face in rebuilding after the hurricane?
Cubans are struggling with severely limited resources, low wages, and a scarcity of building materials, making the reconstruction of homes and infrastructure nearly impossible.
What role does community solidarity play in Cuba's recovery efforts?
Community solidarity is vital, as citizens are stepping up to help each other by sharing resources and support, compensating for the lack of sufficient government aid in the recovery process.