A Cuban resident in the United States shared on TikTok the contents of the food box she sends to her son on the island every month, sparking a wave of comments both in support and against. In the video, which has circulated widely on social media, she shows a selection of products she primarily buys at Costco.
“Once a month I send my child in Cuba a box of food,” says user @saylin4020 while holding a bottle of Hellmann's mayonnaise. She also shows potato chips, muffins, Oreo cookies, small jars of Nutella, cheese, and other sweets. “I'm going to show you what I send from Costco, which I feel gives me the best results,” she adds.
The gesture was applauded by many people who emphasized the effort it entails for a migrant mother to support her child from a distance. Amidst the economic crisis in Cuba, products like the ones she displays are unattainable for a large part of the population. “A treat for a child in Cuba is a luxury that cannot be afforded. Sending it is great,” commented a user.
However, not everyone viewed it positively. Several comments criticized the type of food sent, noting that it consisted of "junk food" and "processed sugar" that was not suitable for a child. "That's not food," "they're just products full of dye," or "pure empty calories" were some of the most frequently repeated phrases.
The mother responded sincerely to those who attacked her: “No, it doesn't fill the void, but if I hadn't come, my son wouldn’t have a future, and if God allows it, he will be with me this year. Sometimes that's the price of emigrating.” Regarding the criticisms of the contents of the package, she was clear: “When I send it, it's because I can and I don't mind spending, since it’s for my son. That's not the only thing he eats.”
Her video not only highlighted a personal story but also a shared reality for thousands of Cuban mothers in exile who strive to provide some level of well-being for their children, even if it’s just through a box of sweets and cookies.
Frequently Asked Questions about Sending Assistance to Family Members in Cuba
Why do Cuban mothers abroad send food packages to their children in Cuba?
Cuban mothers abroad send food packages to their children in Cuba as an act of love and responsibility. This is due to the economic precariousness on the island, where many basic products are unreachable because of the economic crisis. Assistance from abroad ensures that their relatives have access to food and other items that they would otherwise be unable to obtain.
What impact does the aid sent from abroad have on Cuban families?
The aid sent from abroad has a significant impact on the quality of life for Cuban families. Many depend on these remittances and packages to meet basic needs, reflecting the economic precariousness on the island and the importance of ongoing family support.
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