Homeless families in Guantánamo: Cuban seeks support for those affected

Filmmaker Daniel Ross Dieguez has launched an urgent appeal for help to assist several families in Yacabo Abajo, Guantánamo, who have been left homeless after the devastating impact of Hurricane Óscar.

This natural phenomenon severely impacted the community, leaving homes in ruins and its residents in conditions of extreme vulnerability.

Among the affected families are Cándida Ramos Matos, Freddy, Vilma Rodríguez Ramos, Onailis Peligrín Rodríguez, Obrel Pérez Matos, and Marta Rodríguez, who are currently relying on the support of neighbors for shelter.

These temporary homes, although filled with generosity, are not without limitations, and the affected individuals share basic resources under overcrowded conditions. They have received some donated clothing and food, but the supplies remain insufficient to meet all their needs.

Ross Dieguez, who has been directly supporting the communities most affected by the hurricane, is seeking assistance to purchase food, drinking water, and medicine.

To facilitate donations, two bank accounts have been provided: one in Cuban pesos (CUP: 9205 9598 7734 6719) and another in freely convertible currency (MLC: 9235 9598 7084 1579). Additionally, those interested in helping can contact him directly on his mobile at +53 5238 5571, either by call or via WhatsApp.

The filmmaker makes in-person deliveries in the most underserved areas, ensuring that the aid reaches those affected by each donation received.

In critical moments like these, solidarity and external support represent a hope for these families who are striving to rebuild their lives and overcome the challenges left by the devastating cyclone.

Hurricane Oscar made landfall in the province of Guantánamo on October 20, 2024. It triggered severe flooding and river overflows that particularly affected the municipalities of San Antonio del Sur, Imías, and Baracoa.

In just 24 hours, rainfall exceeded 500 millimeters in several areas, leaving communities cut off and destroying numerous homes.

In San Antonio del Sur, where the flooding of the Sabanalamar and Los Ciguatos rivers inundated large areas, many people were caught off guard due to power outages and the lack of early warnings, leading to a situation of chaos and desperation.

The Cuban government's management of the emergency faced criticism for its slow response and the lack of efficient communication systems, exacerbated by a massive blackout that affected the entire island.

At least seven people lost their lives due to landslides and drownings, and some areas remained isolated for days, complicating rescue and relief efforts.

In Imías, landslides buried several homes, isolating entire communities and hindering access to humanitarian aid and medical attention for the injured.

The economic repercussions are also significant, with extensive damage to coffee, banana, and tomato plantations in the Caujerí Valley.

The Cuban army has mobilized resources, including helicopters, to evacuate those affected and distribute food and medicine. However, logistical limitations and a lack of resources have hindered recovery efforts, which are expected to be prolonged due to the economic crisis the country is facing.