85-year-old Cuban man with cancer struggles to escape the streets of Miami: "I can't afford retirement."

The gentleman slept for the last three or four months under a tree at the entrance of a parking lot. The most curious thing is that he arrived in the U.S. legally in 1957.


An 85-year-old Cuban man suffering from cancer is seeking ways to get off the streets of Miami, where he has been living for some time as his retirement pension is not enough to afford rent.

The man, named Omar, showed where he had been sleeping for the last three or four months: beneath a tree at the entrance of a parking lot.

According to a report on TikTok by the user identified as Conducta, who shares cases of homeless individuals in Miami to help them, Omar lost his documents and ended up on the streets, without adequate medical assistance due to the complexity of bureaucratic processes and rising costs.

The most curious thing about this case is that the elderly man arrived in the United States legally in 1957.

In recent days, he has received assistance from the Human Services of the City of Miami.

Supportive individuals took him to a hotel for a few days and announced that they would try to place him in a shelter where he would receive assistance from a social worker to access affordable housing.

Frequently Asked Questions About the Situation of Homeless Cuban Seniors in Miami

Why does Omar, an 85-year-old Cuban man, live on the streets of Miami?

Omar lives on the streets of Miami because his pension is not enough to cover rent. Additionally, he lost his documents, which complicated his financial and social situation. Although he has received support from the City of Miami Human Services, his situation is still precarious.

What kind of help has Omar received recently?

Omar has received assistance from the Human Services of the City of Miami, who temporarily accommodated him in a hotel and are trying to find him a permanent shelter where he can receive support from a social worker to secure low-income housing.

What challenges do Cuban elders in Miami face regarding housing?

Cuban seniors in Miami face significant challenges due to rising rental prices and the inadequacy of their pensions. This is exacerbated by a lack of family support and the complicated bureaucratic processes to access subsidized housing programs.

How does Omar's story reflect the broader context of homeless Cubans in Miami?

Omar's situation is an example of the challenges many Cubans in Miami face, who, due to a lack of economic resources and social support, end up living on the streets. This case highlights the need to provide housing solutions and adequate support for migrant seniors.

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CiberCuba Editorial Team

A team of journalists committed to reporting on Cuban current affairs and topics of global interest. At CiberCuba, we work to deliver truthful news and critical analysis.