The Santa María Parish of the Episcopal Church in Santiago de Cuba made an urgent appeal to continue its community lunch program, an initiative that benefited 196 people in its most recent event.
Parish priest Rodhin Alonso Colomar expressed on Facebook his gratitude for the opportunity to serve amid the growing needs facing the community.
However, he also acknowledged that the funds allocated for this program have been depleted, highlighting that the last lunch was made possible through the anonymous donation of a kind-hearted individual.
"The donors never want their names to be revealed, but without their contributions, this would not be possible," the parish priest stated in a statement, also urging the faithful to pray for this act of mercy to continue.
The statement highlights the difficult situation the country is facing, where rising inflation and food shortages have exacerbated the vulnerability of the most disadvantaged communities.
"Right now in Cuba, all of us at the bottom are in need," Alonso stated, reflecting the reality faced by thousands of Cubans.
The parish hopes that the prayers and solidarity of new donors will ensure that this initiative to feed the most vulnerable continues.
"We pray to God to continue sending good-hearted individuals to help carry on this work of providing food to those in need," concluded the parish priest.
Last month, amidst the ongoing food acquisition crisis that many Cuban families are facing, 441 people benefited from a solidarity community lunch at the Santa María Parish and the San Pedro Mission, both located in Santiago de Cuba.
These acts of solidarity are in addition to other similar initiatives in Cuba.
For example, the solidarity project Brothers of the Street has carried out various activities in Sancti Spíritus to support those in need, one of which was the distribution of food to vulnerable individuals, providing assistance to those who lack adequate government protection.
In December 2023, the Aliento de Vida project organized a Christmas dinner for 50 individuals experiencing homelessness, showcasing the increasing commitment of Cubans to support their fellow countrymen amid the ongoing crisis in the country.
Also, in August 2024, young Cubans mobilized to deliver snacks to homeless individuals in Santiago de Cuba, demonstrating the growing commitment of the community to assist those in need.
Frequently Asked Questions about Community Lunches in Santiago de Cuba
What is the current situation of community lunches in the Santa María Parish of Santiago de Cuba?
The Santa María Parish is facing challenges in continuing its community lunches due to dwindling funds. These lunches have benefited around 196 people in their most recent event, but they rely on donations to keep running.
How can people help maintain community lunches in Santiago de Cuba?
People can contribute through monetary donations or food supplies. The parish priest has requested prayers and the solidarity of new donors to continue this initiative that feeds the most vulnerable members of the community.
What other solidarity projects are there in Cuba to help vulnerable people?
There are several projects in Cuba aimed at helping those in need. For example, the Hermanos de la Calle project in Sancti Spíritus distributes food to vulnerable individuals, and the Humanitarian Project Aliento de Vida organizes dinners and distributes food in rural and urban communities with high poverty rates.
What is the situation of poverty in Cuba according to recent reports?
According to the Cuban Observatory of Human Rights, 89% of Cuban families live in extreme poverty. This situation has been exacerbated by inflation and food shortages, particularly affecting the most vulnerable.
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