In the wake of the destruction wreaked by Hurricane Oscar in Cuba's eastern region, the socialist regime has launched the sale of subsidized mattresses for families affected in Baracoa, Guantánamo. According to reports from Radio Baracoa on Facebook, these sales are taking place at the location known as "mercado campón."
On November 2, Yanisley Ortiz Mantecón, the Deputy Minister of Finance and Prices, announced that the hurricane had caused significant material damages, particularly to homes. To assist those impacted, the Cuban state has initiated the sale of construction materials and mattresses at a 50% subsidy, as outlined in Agreement 9991 of the Council of Ministers, recently published in the Official Gazette of the Republic.
Ortiz Mantecón mentioned that beyond the subsidies, individuals with limited income can apply for bank loans or seek funding through Social Assistance, in accordance with current legislation.
Concerns Over Government Aid
Despite these efforts, many Cubans remain skeptical. During past disasters, such as Hurricane Ian in 2022, the government made similar promises of support, yet the relief efforts were plagued by delays, shortages of materials, and high costs, making recovery challenging for most of those affected.