A family in Guantánamo, struggling with three asthmatic children, has reported that authorities denied them assistance after Hurricane Melissa damaged their home. Despite losing roofing tiles, and experiencing damage to their bathroom and kitchen, the family has been left to sleep in precarious conditions as they attempt to repair their home independently.
Activist and TikToker Freddy King Flow documented the family's plight, capturing the father's testimony. According to him, neither the local delegate nor the social services provided materials. They argued the house was either "unsolvable" or "unaffected by the cyclone," leaving the family without institutional support during a critical time.
No authorities visited the family to assess the damage during the crucial moments. When officials finally appeared, they refused to provide roofing tiles and other materials, claiming the structure wouldn't support them. The father showcased the damaged areas, emphasizing that the storm had stripped away the tiles and described the family's days-long effort to patch the roof with whatever they could find.
The situation is exacerbated by the children's respiratory issues and the inability to maintain basic living conditions in the home. In the absence of state assistance, Freddy King Flow questioned the lack of an on-site technical evaluation and rallied support to meet the family's immediate needs.
The solidarity campaign launched by Freddy has already raised $850 within hours, with plans to continue gathering resources and directing essential supplies to the family.
As the family works to stabilize their roof and restore minimal livability, they emphasize that they have yet to receive a formal technical visit to assess the repair needs or any commitment from local authorities for material supplies.
The Cuban TikToker traveled to the Vallate community in Guantánamo to deliver donations to families who lost nearly everything to Hurricane Melissa in one of Cuba's hardest-hit eastern areas. Videos released by Freddy show homes without roofs, collapsed walls, and families cooking amid debris, expressing gratitude for the donations amassed by his followers.
Freddy explained that his team ventured into remote areas to distribute basic food items, such as rice, sugar, chicken, oil, and soft drinks. Contrary to the government's triumphant rhetoric, Freddy's content highlights the despair and neglect of families still awaiting official aid. In a poignant scene, the TikToker hands a bag of groceries to a man who lost his roof.
FAQs on Government's Response to Hurricane Melissa
What assistance did the family in Guantánamo request from the government?
The family requested materials to repair their roof and home, which were damaged by Hurricane Melissa. They also sought a formal evaluation to determine the necessary repairs.
How did Freddy King Flow assist the affected families?
Freddy King Flow documented the situation, questioned the lack of government response, and initiated a solidarity campaign that raised funds and gathered donations for essential supplies for the affected families.
What were the main challenges faced by the family?
The family faced challenges including a damaged roof, inadequate living conditions, and managing the children's asthma without necessary support or materials for repairs.