The economic crisis and the plight faced by many families in Cuba continue to bring to light stories that contradict the regime's official policy of “not abandoning those in need.”
The most recent case is that of a 15-year-old boy who, despite having a tracheotomy, is forced to sell pizzas on the streets of Camagüey to contribute some money to his household.
Yaslin Lorenzo, through the Facebook group "Ventas por Cantidad en Camagüey," requested assistance for a boy who, as she stated, "has a tracheostomy and is selling pizza on the street, he is 15 years old."
The Camagüey journalist José Luis Tan Estrada, who shows great solidarity with families facing the issue of children working on the streets, shared on Facebook that those close to him call him "Tito."
"He doesn't just sell pizzas; he does everything he can to make ends meet and 'earn a little money,'” Tan stated.
Additionally, it was noted that Tito "does everything himself. He cooks his meals, including his puree. Furthermore, he is not well cared for despite his health conditions."
He explained that he underwent a tracheotomy when he was four years old after accidentally ingesting caustic soda. Later, they attempted to graft a piece of skin, but it was necessary to operate on him again.
Finally, he emphasized that Tito is highly regarded by his neighbors and those who know him. However, “he lives with relatives in the Nitrógeno neighborhood in Camagüey, in a complicated situation within his family.”
Last September, the story of a boy selling tamales on the streets of Camagüey touched many hearts, evoking empathy and solidarity for him and his family.
On that occasion, journalist Tan reported this case on his Facebook profile, highlighting the harsh reality faced by many children in Cuba, trapped in an economic crisis that forces them to work from a young age.
Roelbis, as the little one is called, received support from Cubans both on and off the island after his touching story became known.
Among the gifts Titingo received, as his loved ones affectionately call him, was a new bicycle, which brought a beautiful smile to the face of this brave boy.
The case of "Titingo" serves as a reminder of the challenging conditions many children in Cuba face, but also highlights the solidarity and commitment of people to make a difference in their lives.
Frequently Asked Questions about Child Labor and the Crisis in Cuba
Why is a 15-year-old boy with a tracheotomy selling pizzas in Camagüey?
The economic crisis in Cuba is forcing many children to work to help their families. In the case of Tito, a 15-year-old boy with a tracheostomy, the lack of government support and extreme poverty have led him to sell pizzas on the streets of Camagüey to contribute to his household, despite his delicate health condition.
How is the Cuban economic crisis affecting children?
The economic crisis in Cuba is causing an alarming increase in child labor. Many minors, like Tito in Camagüey, are forced to work from a young age in activities such as selling food on the streets to financially support their families. This situation is exacerbated by the lack of support from the Cuban government for the most vulnerable families.
What actions are being taken to help these children in Cuba?
There is a growing mobilization of solidarity from the Cuban community inside and outside the island. Cases like that of Roelbis, known as "Titingo," have received assistance from caring Cubans who seek to improve the living conditions of these children. However, this support does not replace the need for structural change and effective government support to eradicate child labor in the country.
What does the increase in child labor reflect about the situation in Cuba?
The rise in child labor reflects the severity of the economic and social crisis in Cuba. Despite the fact that Cuban law prohibits child labor, the reality is that many children are forced to work due to extreme poverty and a lack of basic resources. This phenomenon highlights the regime’s inability to provide a safe and suitable environment for child development.
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