"I'll show you the essentials that I always send." With this phrase, China Reyes (@chinareyes1604), a Cuban residing in the United States, has taken TikTok by storm by sharing a video with practical ideas for putting together packages to send to the island, all sourced from Dollar Tree.
This type of content, common and much appreciated by many Cubans, reflects how scarcity in Cuba leads emigrants to act like worker ants, carrying support for their families.
In the video, China walks through the store and recommends products that, in her experience, are useful and easy to ship: “Let's start with these scrub sponges that I love; they are excellent, along with these little scrubbing pads that come with detergent already included.” She also mentions a small Dawn detergent that she finds more effective than the larger ones: “It's small, but it's one of the ones that lathers the most. The big ones are completely useless.”
The list includes Suave deodorants, acetaminophen, Advil, razors, antibacterial gel, panty liners, and even outlets and extensions, which are essential for dealing with the "ups and downs of the electricity" on the island. "This extension is a bit small, but it can still be used for something," he explains.
The video generated various reactions in the comments. One user remarked, “I want to know if I’m the only one who feels that detergent smells like cockroaches when it dries.” Another replied, “I like it because it removes grease well, but I have noticed that smell on the scrub sponge.” Some recommended alternatives: “I recommend Palmolive dishwashing detergents.”
On the other hand, there were those who appreciated the content from China. "Excellent video," commented one follower, while another wrote, "Your video is amazing; you gave me clarity."
The video by China Reyes, like many others of its kind, has garnered the attention of Cubans both on and off the island, demonstrating how everyday activities, such as packing a parcel, can transform into a genuine display of support amid the shortages affecting families in Cuba.
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