A Cuban woman living in the United States recently shared a difficult situation she faced when her best friend, still residing in Cuba, asked her for $5,000 to fund her migration journey. This story came to light through a TikTok video posted last Friday.
Known as Yessi la mulatica on the platform, the content creator recounted her surprise upon reading her friend's request: "Friend, you've been in the U.S. for two years, please help me. I can't handle this situation any longer. I need to make this journey, and I have no one else to turn to."
Through her video, Yessi aimed to debunk a widespread myth in Cuba: that emigrants to the United States automatically have "money to spare and a life of ease."
The Harsh Reality of the American Dream
"Many in Cuba believe that once you arrive here, dollars start raining from the sky," Yessi explained, adding, "But no one sees the early mornings for work, the bills, the rent, the exhaustion, or the times you forgo buying something for yourself so your kids don't go without."
Yessi candidly described the hardships faced by recent immigrants: "Migrating doesn’t make you wealthy. Overnight, you find yourself starting from scratch, sacrificing, and fighting every single day."
Understanding Without Judgment
Despite her own struggles, Yessi refrained from passing judgment on her friend: "I don't judge my friend because I also dreamed of a better future," she admitted.
Yessi's story is not unique. In March, another Cuban woman in the U.S. expressed her frustration that her family in Cuba only contacted her for financial help. Similarly, in June, another woman cut ties with people in Cuba due to constant requests for money or mobile recharges.
The Economic Strain on Cuban Emigrants
The ongoing economic crisis in Cuba, marked by food shortages, lack of medicines, and frequent blackouts since 2021, has increasingly pressured emigrants to become the primary support for their families and friends back home, regardless of their own circumstances abroad.
The $5,000 requested by Yessi's friend far exceeds the usual costs of the most documented migration routes, which range from $1,000 to $2,000 via Guyana or Brazil in 2025-2026, hinting at a more complex journey or additional expenses involved.
Data from 2026 shows that 92% of remittances to Cuba originate from the United States, with Cuban Americans in Miami sending an average of $2,165 annually to their families through a combination of cash, mobile recharges, and in-kind shipments, highlighting the substantial effort behind each transaction.
Yessi concluded her video with an open-ended question, sparking discussion among viewers: "If you were in my shoes, what would you do? Would you help her even if it completely disrupted your own finances, or would you prioritize your family?"
Understanding Cuban Migration and Economic Pressures
Why are so many Cubans seeking financial help from relatives abroad?
The economic crisis in Cuba has deepened since 2021, leading to severe shortages of basic necessities. As a result, many Cubans rely on relatives abroad for financial support to meet their daily needs.
What are the common migration routes for Cubans leaving the island?
Common migration routes for Cubans include traveling through countries like Guyana or Brazil, with costs typically ranging from $1,000 to $2,000. These routes are considered among the most documented and accessible.
How significant are remittances from the U.S. to Cuba?
Remittances from the United States are crucial for many Cubans, with 92% of all remittances to the island coming from there. These funds help families cover essential expenses amidst the ongoing economic struggles.