Ernesto Pérez Rodríguez, a Facebook user who shared the dramatic situation of Jonathan, a 7-year-old Cuban boy with Down Syndrome, recounted that the child lives in extremely precarious conditions.
Jonathan not only faces the challenges of his genetic condition, but he also suffers from sickle cell disease, has heart disease, epilepsy, and chronic asthma, as detailed by Pérez Rodríguez in his post, which has received responses from several users in recent hours.
The minor lives with his mother in a housing located in San Lino, between 3 and 4 South, in front of the area medical office, in a space without a complete wall, exposed to the elements, rain, and cold.
“The room is just a curtain... his mother is sometimes seen desperate for his nourishment,” lamented Pérez Rodríguez, who has launched a campaign to collect assistance for the child and his family.
The call for solidarity includes donations of food, clothing, toys, a rice cooker, and any other type of contribution, no matter how small.
"It’s about what you can give, it doesn't matter if it's 100 pesos", wrote the internet user, who has offered to personally collect the donations and to provide his mobile number and Zelle account for those who wish to contribute from within or outside the country.
The post has sparked a swift reaction from dozens of Cubans both on and off the island, who have offered financial and material support. Many have shared the message, moved by Jonathan's story and the extreme vulnerability in which he lives.
In the comments, a person confirmed the authenticity of the case and the urgency to intervene. “They are from Guantánamo, I know them, blessings for your work”; “I have visited their home and they live almost in the open”, wrote a user, adding that “social workers have come and haven’t helped them, especially considering the baby’s condition”.
This case has once again brought to the forefront the shortcomings of the social assistance system in Cuba, especially for children with multiple disabilities and families in poverty. It has also demonstrated, once again, the crucial role that social networks play in bringing visibility to cases that would otherwise remain anonymous.
Anyone wishing to contribute to this cause can contact directly at mobile number 56107779, asking for Ernesto, or go to the address indicated in the post: San Lino between 3 and 4 Sur, in front of the clinic, asking for the child Jonathan.
A Zelle account is also available for those residing in the United States who wish to provide financial support to this Cuban mother who fights every day for her son's life.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Situation of Children in Cuba and Citizen Solidarity
What is the situation of Jonathan, the Cuban boy with Down Syndrome?
Jonathan, a 7-year-old Cuban boy, lives in extremely precarious conditions with his mother in San Lino, Cuba. In addition to his Down syndrome, he suffers from sickle cell disease, is a heart patient, an epileptic, and has chronic asthma. Their home lacks a complete wall, exposing them to the elements. The community has come together to offer assistance through donations of food, clothing, toys, and other essential items.
How is the Cuban community responding to the situation of vulnerability among children on the island?
The Cuban community, both inside and outside the island, has mobilized to provide support for children in vulnerable situations. Social media has played a crucial role in raising awareness of these cases and facilitating the organization of solidarity campaigns, collecting donations and resources to improve the living conditions of these minors and their families.
What shortcomings does the social assistance system in Cuba face regarding children with disabilities?
The social assistance system in Cuba faces serious shortcomings, especially for children with multiple disabilities. The lack of resources and government support has left many families without access to basic services, such as medical equipment, suitable housing, and food. This has forced the population to rely on civic solidarity to meet these fundamental needs.
What role do social networks play in assisting children in Cuba?
Social media is essential for raising awareness and coordinating efforts to help children in Cuba. Through platforms like Facebook, Cubans share stories of children in critical situations, enabling the swift mobilization of resources and support both within and outside the country. This mechanism has proven to be vital in alleviating the shortcomings of the state social assistance system.
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