The Santa María Parish of the Episcopal Church in Santiago de Cuba has issued an urgent appeal for support to continue its community lunch program, an effort that recently provided meals to 196 individuals. Father Rodhin Alonso Colomar, the parish priest, expressed his appreciation on Facebook for the opportunity to serve during these challenging times for the community. However, he also pointed out that the funds allocated for this initiative have been depleted, noting that the most recent lunch was made possible by an anonymous donor's generosity. "Donors prefer to remain unnamed, but without their contributions, this wouldn't be possible," the priest stated in a communiqué, also urging the faithful to pray for the continuation of this compassionate endeavor.
This plea highlights the severe situation in the country, where escalating inflation and food shortages have exacerbated the vulnerability of the most disadvantaged communities. "At this moment in Cuba, all of us at the bottom are in need," Alonso remarked, echoing the reality faced by thousands of Cubans. The parish remains hopeful that prayers and the solidarity of new benefactors will enable this initiative to provide meals to the most vulnerable to persist.
"We pray to God to keep sending people with kind hearts to carry on with His work of feeding those in need," the priest concluded. Last month, despite the crisis in acquiring food that many Cuban families face, both the Santa María Parish and the San Pedro Mission in Santiago de Cuba served a solidarity lunch to 441 people. These acts of kindness are part of a broader effort across Cuba to support those in need.
For instance, the Brothers of the Street project has organized various activities in Sancti Spíritus to aid the most vulnerable, including distributing food to those lacking sufficient government protection. In December 2023, the Breath of Life project hosted a Christmas dinner for 50 homeless individuals, showcasing the growing commitment of Cubans to assist their fellow citizens during the country's ongoing crisis. Additionally, in August 2024, young Cubans mobilized to deliver snacks to the homeless in Santiago de Cuba, reflecting the community's increasing dedication to helping those in dire need.
Community Support Initiatives in Cuba
Why is the Santa María Parish seeking support for its community lunch program?
The Santa María Parish is seeking support because the funds for its community lunch program have been exhausted, and they rely on donations to continue providing meals to those in need.
How many people benefited from the recent community lunch initiative?
The recent community lunch initiative benefited 196 individuals, highlighting the ongoing need for such programs.
What other solidarity initiatives are taking place in Cuba?
Other initiatives include the Brothers of the Street project in Sancti Spíritus and the Breath of Life project, both of which provide food assistance to vulnerable populations in Cuba.