The devastating impact of Hurricane Oscar in San Antonio del Sur, Guantánamo, has left lasting scars that may never completely heal. Yet, individuals like Geomanis Faure Ramírez, known locally as the "workshop man," believe that a touch of compassion and solidarity can bring comfort to those affected. Geomanis has been tirelessly traveling to this community each day, offering free repairs for mattresses that were damaged during the hurricane.
According to the Venceremos newspaper, Geomanis arrived in San Antonio del Sur unannounced and without invitation, motivated solely by a deep desire to help. Equipped with his tools, a heavy-duty sewing machine, bags of cotton, and all necessary materials, he has been mending mattresses for free. "He showed up, and we immediately gave him the first mattress that had been ruined by the floods," shared Giordani Ortega, a resident who benefited from Geomanis's services. "Not only did he fix it for free, but he also donated a mattress to my 96-year-old grandfather. We can now sleep better at night."
Mailén Aguilar, another local resident, expressed how the community has embraced Geomanis's efforts. "We've provided him with a comfortable space to work where people can bring their mattresses. His presence feels like a divine gift, and we support him in every way we can. He's welcome to stay as long as he likes; San Antonio is thrilled with his presence, and there will always be work for him. Plus, we offer him our support," she affirmed.
The Importance of a Good Night's Sleep
For Faure, who typically works in Santa María, Guantánamo, a mattress is more than just furniture—it's a lifelong companion, providing a place of rest and relaxation after a hard day's work. This belief drives his commitment to helping the people of San Antonio del Sur. "It's all thanks to the drivers who travel to this area and know about my initiative. The support from families is crucial. I've set up a temporary repair center from a home near the Emilio Daudinot Municipal Museum in the Reparto Cultura community," he explained.
The local residents have been gradually seeking his assistance and are extremely grateful for the help they're receiving. "I've donated two mattresses to some elderly residents who need special care," Faure noted. "This is a time for unity, and it's heartening to see so many people come together to repair homes, clean up, and offer help. That's why I'm here," he emphasized.
Support from Fellow Entrepreneurs
Geomanis is not alone in his efforts to support San Antonio del Sur. Brothers Víctor Manuel Hernández Escalona and Juan Antonio Bello Escalona have joined this noble mission since October 22, aiding in the recovery efforts in Guantánamo. "We are from Camagüey and deliver mattresses and other supplies across Las Tunas, Holguín, Santiago de Cuba, and as far as Baracoa," said Hernández Escalona. They have used Facebook to promote solidarity through mattress production, aiming to assist the most vulnerable. They invite people to identify those in need so they can donate their mattresses.
"Initially, we never had the chance to make donations, but the plight of San Antonio del Sur moved us deeply. During my first visit after the hurricane, we decided to leave five of the 25 mattresses we had planned to sell for donation," stated Hernández Escalona. "Upon returning, I told my brother that we should make five mattresses for each trip to San Antonio, and we've focused on production since then," he added.
As reported by Venceremos, they have so far delivered 12 mattresses, with more in production as donations for San Antonio del Sur residents. "The number of affected people is overwhelming—it's practically everyone. I can't do it alone, but with each trip, donating two, three, or five mattresses, we make progress in helping those most in need," he concluded. "I encourage anyone interested to place orders or if they know someone in need of a mattress donation, to contact me at 51095045 or reach out via WhatsApp."