A young mother from Cacocum in Holguín has received over three million Cuban pesos after her heartbreaking story touched thousands following the devastation of Hurricane Melissa. Her plea for help resonated deeply, as she lost everything during the storm.
The fundraising effort, spearheaded by activist Noly Blak, was publicized on Facebook, where Blak shared an image showing the stacks of money collected.
"Three million 155,634 for the mother from Cacocum from my followers. Thank God," he posted.
The mother of four became widely recognized on social media after an interview with Blak where she expressed a desire that encapsulated the struggles of many hurricane victims: "I don't want anything; all I want is food for my children."
Her home in the Peralta community was completely destroyed. The floods took away everything she had, and she wasn't even evacuated. According to her account, she lost mattresses and essential belongings, with no support from the state.
The fundraising sparked a wave of gratitude towards those who contributed, along with concerns about the young mother's safety.
"It's good that someone can guide her to buy a new home and the essentials she needs," commented a woman from Pinar del Río.
From Spain, another Cuban emphasized: "A good house for that mother, but in town, where she won't struggle for her children."
Others expressed worry over the mother's vulnerability with such a large sum of money: "Please, how will they manage that situation? With so much money... she could be in danger without knowing it," cautioned an online user.
This act of solidarity highlights the harsh reality in Cuba, where thousands of families remain abandoned post-Hurricane Melissa.
Struggles Across Eastern Cuba
Regions like Holguín, Las Tunas, Santiago de Cuba, and Granma were hit hard. Numerous communities experienced severe flooding, leaving homes destroyed and possessions irretrievable.
Not only were roofs and walls demolished; appliances, beds, clothes, food, and other essentials were lost—items unattainable for families whose wages don't cover basic needs.
Despite government reports of "recovery actions," the most affected neighborhoods see no construction materials or urgent aid, leaving people waiting without answers from collapsed homes or precarious shelters.
In response to this official inaction, citizens are taking initiatives that the government neither accelerates nor supports. Noly Blak's collection, like many recent efforts in Cuba, was born not from any state program but from a desperate appeal shared online.
No institution stepped in for the young woman from Cacocum; it was the public who decided to buy her a home and give her a fresh start with her children.
Thousands of donors made transfers and sent receipts, some seeking public recognition, others opting for anonymity.
In an earlier video, the young mother broke down in tears, expressing gratitude for the support she received.
She did not mention any government promises or state recovery plans. She thanked the strangers who took action while authorities continue to pledge assistance that never arrives.
The outcome was more than just a collection; it confirmed that in a nation where poverty is rampant and institutions fail to respond, solidarity among Cubans is the lifeline for those who have lost everything.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Fundraising Effort
Who organized the fundraising for the mother in Cacocum?
The fundraising was organized by activist Noly Blak and was announced on Facebook.
What was the main request of the mother from Cacocum?
The mother from Cacocum expressed that all she wanted was food for her children after losing everything to Hurricane Melissa.
How did the public respond to the fundraising effort?
The public showed immense gratitude and concern for the mother's safety, with many contributing to the collection and expressing the need for her to have a secure home.