The humanitarian effort known as Breath of Life, led by Yankiel Fernández, announced on Sunday that its Sponsorship Program currently supports more than 45 children and young adults with cerebral palsy across Cuba, from its eastern to western regions.
In the most recent distribution, families received food and cash transfers totaling 72,000 Cuban pesos, with each mother receiving between 2,000 and 3,000 pesos.
The items provided included meat, eggs, diapers, baby wipes, rice, noodles, juice, and humanitarian rice, all distributed from a modest collection point as depicted in images shared by Fernández on his Facebook profile.
"We've been working quietly but diligently, consistently bringing Breath of Life. We don't stop. On the contrary, every day we gain more strength," the activist emphasized as he shared the program's outcomes.
The founder of this solidarity project did not shy away from discussing the neglect these families face. "The neglect and abandonment towards these children are immense, and some are forgotten," he stated, highlighting how private solidarity fills gaps that the Cuban state fails to address.
The project's growth over the last two years is significant. In July 2024, the program was aiding 12 children with plans to expand to 35 beneficiaries between Havana and Pinar del Río. By July of this year, that number exceeded 45, showcasing both the project's expansion and the severity of the need.
The operational model relies on sponsors who contribute regularly to ensure each family receives a basic food basket. The donor network includes individuals from almost every U.S. state, as well as Germany, Spain, and Colombia.
The project's significance is heightened by a context in which Cuba's Health Minister, José Ángel Portal Miranda, admitted to the National Assembly in 2025 that the country had only 30% of its essential medications available.
The scarcity of anticonvulsants like Clobazam directly impacts children with cerebral palsy, and in November 2025, a girl named Nabila passed away partly due to lack of access to this medication.
Families of the beneficiaries expressed their gratitude in comments on the announcement. "Infinite thanks to this great project, Breath of Life, which brings relief to many across the island. The collaborators who provide us with the oxygen and strength for our children's health and well-being are invaluable," wrote a grateful mother.
Another family member highlighted the direct impact on their quality of life: "Thanks to the sponsors, our quality of life has improved. Thank you for the immense love you have for our children."
A third voice captured the collective sentiment: "What you do for the happiness, health, and peace of the children and parents is priceless."
Breath of Life has also responded to other emergencies on the island. In October 2025, the initiative launched a medication collection campaign for dengue and chikungunya patients and organized aid for eastern Cuba following Hurricane Melissa.
The project celebrated a decade of work in August 2025, progressively expanding its reach to include vulnerable elderly individuals and families in extreme poverty.
Addressing the Needs of Cuban Children with Cerebral Palsy
What is the Breath of Life initiative?
Breath of Life is a humanitarian project led by Yankiel Fernández, designed to support children and young adults with cerebral palsy in Cuba, providing them with essential resources and aid.
How does the Sponsorship Program operate?
The program relies on sponsors who make regular contributions to provide basic food baskets and other necessities to families of children with cerebral palsy in Cuba.
Why is the program necessary in Cuba?
Due to the Cuban government's inability to meet healthcare and basic needs, initiatives like Breath of Life fill critical gaps, especially for vulnerable groups like children with cerebral palsy.