Nathyy Zaldívar Toro, a Cuban residing in the United States, is back on TikTok after sharing a receipt for a basic grocery purchase she sent to her family in Cuba. In the video, while holding an extremely long receipt, she clarifies what many fail to understand: “Cuba really is a bill, my love, a big bill.” With this statement, Nathyy references the high costs associated with sending aid to the island, totaling around $400 for products and another $300 for shipping, bringing the overall cost to $700.
In the clip, @nathyy.zaldivar.t responds to those who tell her that "Cuba is not a bill," explaining that for those with family on the island, sending food and essential items has become one of their greatest financial responsibilities. Nathyy makes it clear: for her, this "bill" is a priority that she cannot neglect. “I would rather be without food in the cold than let my family go without food in the cold in Cuba… until they can be here, they have to live well.”
This is not the first time Nathyy has faced criticism for her remittances. In September, she also defended her decision to help her family from abroad, stating that she does not forget her loved ones, despite those who question whether it is worthwhile. “Cuba is indeed a bill, for me it is a bill,” she said at the time, sparking a mix of support and skepticism. This time has been no different.
The comments on TikTok reflect all kinds of reactions. Some are fully supportive of Nathyy, with phrases like “Of course it’s a bill, that’s my biggest bill and yes, it’s significant” and “Of course it’s a bill... if you have to keep sending them money and food all the time,” “I stand by that because I do the same for my family, and yes, it’s a bill, but it’s our responsibility”; “My bill with Cuba is 220 in remittances every month. I won’t go beyond that unless there’s an emergency!”
However, not everyone is so understanding: “It's a bill because you feel like it... what comes from the heart shouldn't be published,” one person said, to which Nathyy firmly responded, “Who told you that someone is complaining, or are you deaf?” Others directly questioned her about her job situation, suggesting that someone with her average salary could not afford to send so much money: “What do you do for a living? Because someone earning what is paid in any state can't afford the luxury of sending $400 in food every month.”
The topic has sparked intense debate on TikTok, especially among those with family in Cuba who understand the financial commitment involved in supporting their loved ones from abroad. And, as Nathyy emphasizes, for many, sending aid to the island is not an option but a duty that, despite the cost, cannot be neglected.
What do you think?
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