The Franciscan Oasis, a day center for vulnerable elderly individuals located in the San Pedro Apóstol community in the Versalles neighborhood of Matanzas, provides support to more than 80 beneficiaries twice a week by offering meals, companionship, and spiritual care, as reported by Cáritas Cuba.
On April 21, the center celebrated its second anniversary with a thanksgiving mass and educational activities. This date holds special significance as it coincides with the Jubilee commemorating 800 years since the death of Saint Francis of Assisi and the 25-year presence of the Conventual Franciscan Friars in Cuba.
The operation of the dining facility is made possible through funding from the Italian Conference of Catholic Bishops and the coordination of local Cáritas volunteers, under the guidance of priests Fr. Luigi Moretti and Fr. Raúl Alvarado.
Fr. Raúl explains the service's scope: "We provide care twice a week. On Tuesdays, we prepare a kind of hearty soup, and on Fridays the menu includes rice, meats, and root vegetables. Our main goal is not just to provide meals; the food is an add-on. The essential aspect is ensuring they feel accompanied, listened to, and welcomed."
Beyond Meals: Comprehensive Support for the Elderly
In addition to the dining services, the center delivers meals to those who are homebound, operates a potable water treatment plant benefiting local residents, and offers weekly personal assistance to seniors in more complex situations.
The priest also emphasizes the role of the parish garden: "Our service is also sustained by our own contributions, and we are enhancing the parish garden, a Cáritas project that has been expanding."
Among those benefitting is Matilde Santos Concepción, age 93, who was enjoying a bowl of broth at noon during an interview with Cáritas Cuba.
Another recipient, Lizarys Padrón Rosales, shares what the center means to her family: "I have lupus and live with my 90-year-old mother and my 72-year-old brother, who has an amputated leg. Here, we have found tremendous support. This lunch means a lot to my family, but above all, we are moved by their closeness and the care they provide."
Volunteers: The Heart of the Oasis
The role of volunteers is crucial to the functioning of the Oasis. Elderly dining facilities in Cuba largely depend on the support of religious organizations and international donors, given the State's lack of involvement.
Volunteer Magda Hernández sums it up clearly: "Humble people with kind hearts eagerly await this help, which restores their joy and is a remedy against loneliness."
This institutional neglect is acknowledged even by Cuban authorities. In March, the government admitted it lacks resources to care for vulnerable individuals, leaving organizations like Cáritas as the primary support network for seniors.
The situation is particularly dire considering that Cuba is the most aged country in Latin America, with 25% of its population over 60, while 99% of pensioners report that their income is insufficient to meet basic needs.
Nationally, the Church of El Cobre assists 500 vulnerable individuals amid the crisis, and Cáritas Cuba distributes humanitarian aid to up to 24,000 people across the country, focusing on the elderly, the sick, and those with disabilities.
Fr. Luigi Moretti concluded the anniversary celebration with words of gratitude towards the team: "Thank you very much to the Cáritas team for the precious service you provide to our Diocese. May the Lord reward you with his great love!"
Helping the Elderly in Matanzas: Key Questions
What services does the Franciscan Oasis provide to seniors?
The Franciscan Oasis offers meals, companionship, spiritual care, meal delivery services, a potable water treatment facility, and personal assistance to seniors in complex situations.
How is the dining facility at the Franciscan Oasis funded?
The dining facility is funded by the Italian Conference of Catholic Bishops and operated with the help of local Cáritas volunteers.