A group of Cuban children were spotted begging for money in a tourist area of Havana, causing concern among locals and drawing attention on social media. A mother, Taymi Montes, highlighted the situation in the Facebook group "Cuban Mothers for a Better World," expressing her worry about the safety of these minors.
"These kids have run away from school and are wandering around El Vedado asking for money. If any mother recognizes them, they say they are from Alamar," Montes posted. She mentioned that it was "a group of six children" and urged mothers to stay vigilant due to the rising violence and crime on the island.
Her post garnered numerous comments, especially from mothers who claimed that one of the children had been reported missing by his mother after escaping from a special school. However, it turned out not to be the same group of children, as the missing child was eventually found.
"This is getting out of hand. Our children are begging in the streets because they lack everything. Although they are just kids, they are aware of the situation. Let's protect our little ones because the streets are really dangerous," commented one user in response to the post.
Another mother pointed out, "On the bridge of 100, there are also two children begging for money. This system is becoming increasingly unsustainable. The start of the school year, which should be a celebration, is now a struggle to see who has the best backpack, lunch box, and shoes," she lamented, shedding light on other issues affecting Cuban families.
In January of this year, four Cuban children were seen alone, begging for money on a Havana highway, sparking alarm on social media due to the rise in disappearances and murders in the country. The children were reportedly "asking for money from tourist cars and breaking bottles in the middle of the road to make them stop," according to a user who reported the incident.
A viral story emerged about a nine-year-old Cuban boy who walks up to six kilometers daily in Havana, not to meet friends or family, but to beg for money to eat. The boy, who lives in La Víbora, in the municipality of Diez de Octubre, makes the journey to El Vedado each day to try to buy at least two or three pizzas that cost 200 pesos.
Key Concerns About Child Begging in Havana
This section aims to address some of the frequently asked questions regarding the issue of child begging in Havana, highlighting the systemic problems and safety concerns.
Why are children begging in Havana?
Children are begging in Havana due to extreme poverty, lack of resources, and systemic issues within the country. Many families are unable to provide basic necessities, leading children to seek money on the streets.
What areas in Havana are most affected by child begging?
Tourist areas such as El Vedado and highways near major attractions are hotspots for child begging. Children are seen trying to get money from tourists as well as locals.
What actions are being taken to address this issue?
There is an increasing call for vigilance among parents and community members. Social media posts and local groups are raising awareness, but systemic changes are needed to provide long-term solutions.