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The independent organization Citizenship and Freedom announced that it has managed to gather over a ton of humanitarian aid for families affected by the devastating impact of Hurricane Melissa in eastern Cuba.
The initiative, which mobilized Cubans both inside and outside the island, reflects the immense spirit of solidarity of the diaspora in the face of the humanitarian emergency being experienced by thousands of families in Santiago de Cuba, Holguín, Bayamo, El Cobre, Contramaestre, and Palma Soriano.
In just three days, the organization managed to collect 2,314 pounds (1.05 tons, divided into 1,664 in Miami and 650 in Madrid) of food, hygiene products, and essential medicines, according to their post on the social network Facebook.
Out of that total, 470 pounds have already been sent, thanks to the collaboration of hundreds of donors and volunteers at the collection points established in Miami and Madrid. In addition, 1,104 euros were raised in cash to cover logistical and transportation costs.
"It has been thrilling to see entire families, young people, children, and seniors come forward to offer what they have. The Cuban people, both on and off the island, continue to demonstrate their extraordinary capacity for solidarity," said Carolina Barrero, executive director of the organization.
Next steps: shipping to Cuba
The organization is now preparing to send supplies to the most affected areas of eastern Cuba, prioritizing rural and isolated communities. Ciudadanía y Libertad ensured that the commitment is to deliver the donations directly, without state intermediaries, guaranteeing transparency and effectiveness in the distribution.
“Our commitment is to deliver this aid to the most isolated and vulnerable areas of Cuba. Donating is an act of hope and shared responsibility,” the organization stated in its announcement.
Those interested in contributing with new donations can do so through the PayPal platform, the information for which was published on social media.
In 2024, just on the eve of the third anniversary of the popular uprising on July 11, 2021, Cuban activists announced the independent organization Ciudadanía y Libertad, established in 2023 to defend the rights of association, assembly, and participation in Cuba, and to promote active citizen engagement to transform their reality.
Its members aim to promote an active and informed society regarding civil and political rights, which are also human rights, as established by Articles 20 and 21 of the Universal Declaration.
They also actively demand the immediate release of political prisoners and the affirmation of rights and civic freedom.
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