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The charitable platform Huellas reported on Friday that the government of the province of Guantánamo has authorized the distribution of donation boxes that had been held for several days.
The news was confirmed through a WhatsApp message received by Johanna Jolá Álvarez, the coordinator of Huellas, who expressed gratitude for the social pressure that led to the release of the aid.
"Good evening, Yohanna. I am writing to inform you that the document has been approved by the provincial temporary group. Please let me know if you still wish to come and deliver it in person, and if so, when you would be coming. Best regards, Daisy," was the message that finally helped to resolve the situation, she said in her Facebook post.
The donations, collected both inside and outside of Cuba, include food, medicine, and other essential goods intended for the people most affected by the crisis in Guantánamo province, which worsened after the passage of Hurricane Oscar last year.
According to reports on social media, the donations gathered during the last week of December were held back on the grounds of "protocol violations," despite the fact that these aids were intended for families affected by disasters, educational institutions, libraries, and health centers in municipalities such as San Antonio del Sur, Imías, Baracoa, and Maisí.
The "Huellas" team, known for its humanitarian work, returned to Guantánamo from Havana with a shipment of food, clothing, toys, hygiene supplies, and essential medical equipment, such as wheelchairs for children with special needs. However, instead of allowing the immediate distribution of these resources, local authorities decided to withhold them, they explained.
Huellas has emphasized the importance of distributing aid directly to ensure that it reaches those who need it most, the note states.
In a statement, the group expressed gratitude to everyone who mobilized to raise awareness of the situation and pressured for the donations to be returned.
"The power of the people, that is true power," declared the platform on Facebook.
"We thank all the dignified, honorable, and principled men who have wielded power and understood how to serve the public with the well-being of the people in mind," the statement emphasized.
The Huellas platform also reaffirmed its commitment to transparency and proximity in the distribution of aid, which will be carried out in person to ensure that each donation reaches the hands of those affected.
Finally, Huellas made a call to those who wish to continue collaborating: "Anyone who would like to make their contribution can contact us at +53 55 05 71 11," they stated.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Huellas Solidarity Platform and its Work in Guantánamo
Why were the donations from Huellas held in Guantánamo?
The donations were held by the authorities in Guantánamo under the pretext of an alleged failure to comply with protocols. This sparked outrage, as the aid was intended for families affected by Hurricane Oscar, and the retention was viewed as an anti-Cuban and unethical act.
What kind of donations does the Huellas platform make?
The Huellas platform delivers donations of food, medicine, and other essential goods. These aids are intended for those most affected by the crisis in Guantánamo, especially following the passage of Hurricane Oscar.
How is the distribution of assistance organized by Huellas?
Huellas insists on distributing aid directly, ensuring that each donation reaches those who need it most. The distribution is done in person to guarantee transparency and efficiency in the process.
How can one collaborate with the Huellas initiative?
To collaborate with Huellas, you can contact the number +53 55 05 71 11. Monetary donations are also accepted, which are used to acquire necessary resources for the affected families in Guantánamo.
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