Cuban activist Nelys Valdés took to Facebook on Sunday to share her heartfelt experience of participating in a food distribution event organized by the grassroots initiative "Hermanos de la Calle" in Sancti Spíritus. She was joined by her colleague Yureibys Torresilla, known as "The Hero," and Yanalli González, who manages another community project called "Salvando Vidas."
"Today I felt fulfilled contributing to this beautiful endeavor, made possible thanks to my companion Yureibys Torresilla, who has tirelessly worked under the sun and rain for a week to ensure everything goes smoothly," Valdés expressed in her social media post.
Valdés acknowledged the challenges she faces in physically participating in the collective's activities. "There are moments of sadness when I wish to stand beside Yureibys Torresilla, to be right there with him, but it's impossible due to numerous personal and family issues. Additionally, transportation is a significant hurdle as we lack the means to travel together," she explained.
Despite sometimes feeling "useless," Valdés clarified that Torresilla appreciates her efforts in keeping the community informed through social media updates. "My respects go out to all who donated to make this day a success," she added, extending a special thanks to those who supported the event.
Speaking of Torresilla, Valdés emphasized, "I'm certain you'd give your life for this cause you initiated."
Community Efforts Amid Hostility
The "Hermanos de la Calle" project operates independently of the Cuban government, relying heavily on donations from the Cuban diaspora, particularly from the United States. Their documented efforts include a solidarity meal for 90 vulnerable individuals in December 2024, a lunch for over 400 people in November 2025, and the distribution of condensed milk and coffee in April 2026, made possible through contributions from the U.S.
Despite facing government hostility, such as an attempted interference with a donation meant for over 700 people in November 2025, the group managed to carry out the event at the activist's residence.
Private Sector Support
This month, a private entrepreneur named Maikel, who owns "Comidas Domicilio Sabor Cuban," donated 20 free meals to the project. The collective described this gesture as "Cuban flavor, good seasoning, and lots of love for those who need it most."
Addressing the Food Crisis
The efforts of these activists are set against the backdrop of an unprecedented food crisis in Cuba. According to the "En Cuba Hay Hambre 2025" survey by the Food Monitor Program, 33.9% of Cuban households experienced hunger in 2025, with 25% of the population going to bed without dinner and 29% having to skip a daily meal. The World Food Program reports that Cuba imports about 70% of its food.
As the Cuban government struggles to meet the basic nutritional needs of its people, citizen-led initiatives like "Hermanos de la Calle" and "Salvando Vidas" provide one of the few reliable support networks available to the island's most vulnerable individuals.
Understanding the Efforts of Cuban Activists
What is "Hermanos de la Calle"?
"Hermanos de la Calle" is a grassroots initiative operating independently of the Cuban government, focusing on providing food and support to vulnerable communities in Cuba, relying heavily on donations, especially from the U.S.
How does "Hermanos de la Calle" overcome government hostility?
Despite attempts by the government to thwart their efforts, such as blocking donations, "Hermanos de la Calle" continues its work by organizing events in private settings, ensuring aid reaches those in need.
What role does the Cuban diaspora play in supporting these initiatives?
The Cuban diaspora, particularly those in the United States, plays a crucial role in supporting initiatives like "Hermanos de la Calle" through financial donations, which are essential for sustaining their community support activities.