A man from Regla, Havana, who is currently living under a bridge in Miami, expressed his gratitude to the Cuban community for the support and concern shown regarding his difficult situation.
In a video shared on TikTok by the account Conductadade (@conductadade), Orlando Hernández Luperón expressed his situation and directed a message of hope to those who have supported him from afar.
"I thank the people of Regla for their support and concern. I'm here. The only thing I'm missing are the papers," the man said, visibly emotional.
He pointed out that his situation on the streets is due to the lack of legal documents that would allow him to settle and improve his living conditions in the United States.
In a previous post, Hernández, 61 years old, explained the challenges he has been facing since living on the streets of Miami.
"I haven't been in touch with my family for over four years because I don't have a phone; everything gets stolen, everything gets lost," she stated.
For the past two years, he has lived under a bridge, which he ironically refers to as his "shack" or "second-floor penthouse."
He explained that he avoids accumulating belongings because, when he is away, he runs the risk of losing everything: “Whenever I’m not here, I have to deal with that, like people who carry bags in wheelbarrows. I can’t stand that.”
Hernández, originally from the municipality of Regla in Havana, arrived in the United States in 2015 through Houston, Texas. However, he recounted that he fell victim to a massive scam that affected thousands of people, which marked the beginning of his life on the streets.
"I've been on the streets for eight years. Since I arrived in this country, I haven't been able to find legal work; everything has been 'under the table,' and what they want to pay you is a pittance," he pointed out.
He sincerely detailed the challenges of living on the streets, from the lack of clothing to issues related to insecurity and drugs.
Despite this, Hernández expressed his willingness to work in any job, from gardening to construction: "I don't choose jobs. When they offer me a job, I say yes to the job."
His story reflects the challenges faced by many migrants who, in addition to striving for survival, seek to legalize their status to access better opportunities. Hernández concluded by expressing gratitude for the support and donations received, which represent a ray of hope in his difficult situation.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Situation of Homeless Cubans in Miami
Who is Orlando Hernández Luperón and why does he live on the streets of Miami?
Orlando Hernández Luperón is a Cuban originally from Regla, Havana, who is living under a bridge in Miami due to a lack of legal documents that would allow him to settle in the United States. His situation of homelessness began after he fell victim to a massive scam upon arriving in the country in 2015.
What kind of support has Orlando received from the Cuban community in Miami?
Orlando has received emotional support and donations from the Cuban community both in Miami and from his hometown, Regla, in Havana. This has provided him with hope and helped him cope better with his difficult situation.
What are the biggest challenges Orlando is facing in his current situation?
Orlando faces significant challenges such as insecurity, lack of clothing, and the absence of legal documents that would allow him to access formal jobs and improve his quality of life. Additionally, he has lost touch with his family due to not having a phone.
What solutions is Orlando seeking to overcome his homelessness situation?
Orlando is willing to take on any job, from gardening to construction, with the aim of improving his situation. However, his lack of legal documentation makes it difficult for him to access stable and well-paying employment.
How does Orlando's situation reflect the broader context of homeless Cubans in Miami?
Orlando's story is an example of the challenges many Cubans in Miami face, as they are forced to live on the streets due to a lack of legal documents and family support. The community and social networks play a crucial role in providing assistance and raising awareness of these situations.
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