An influencer shared on social media a story about a Cuban man from Guanabacoa, Havana, sleeping in a car with his dog, a choice many have made due to the high rental prices in Florida.
The TikToker Dairon Cano posted a video showing the elderly Cuban man sleeping in his car alongside his pet.
"Look at life here in the United States," remarked the Cuban influencer, who is well-known on social media for extending a helping hand to his fellow countrymen.
While Cano pondered how someone could live that way, he also expressed deep admiration for his compatriots who, despite the hardships, persist in making their way in the United States: "Deep down, the Cuban is battling and fighting in the U.S."
The TikToker offered his truck to the Cuban man so he could rest for a while in air conditioning, but the man declined the offer, though not without exchanging friendly greetings: "You're a champion."
Living in Cars Due to High Rent
Stories of people forced to live in their cars due to unaffordable rent prices are not new on social media.
In March, a Cuban immigrant shared how he manages to live in his car to save money and support his family back on the Island, as well as to prepare for the arrival of his wife and daughter.
A video shared by the comedian Limay Blanco showed the conditions in which a Cuban immigrant lives in the United States, homeless and with all his belongings in a car, where he sleeps and even cooks his meals.
In January, another Cuban resident in the U.S. revealed that he has been living in his truck for a year and a half due to high rent prices in Miami-Dade County.
"That’s a champion, that’s a winner in the United States," said the TikToker Cano at the beginning of the video.
Challenges Faced by Cuban Immigrants in the U.S.
Below are some frequently asked questions about the challenges faced by Cuban immigrants in the United States, especially those related to housing.
Why are some Cuban immigrants living in their cars?
Many Cuban immigrants resort to living in their cars due to the high costs of rent, especially in areas like Florida. This allows them to save money and support their families back in Cuba.
How do Cuban immigrants manage without a permanent home?
Cuban immigrants who live in their cars often have to adapt by keeping all their belongings in their vehicles and finding ways to cook and sleep inside them. They also rely on community support and social media for help.
What kind of support do Cuban immigrants receive in the U.S.?
Cuban immigrants often receive support from fellow Cubans and influencers who use social media to extend help. This can include temporary accommodation, food, and other forms of assistance.