A Cuban man, originally from Batabanó, who arrived in the United States as a rafter in 1994, has been living on the streets of Miami for the past four years, specifically at the corner of 2nd Avenue and 2nd Street in the Southwest. Manuel Alfonso, now 54, faces a multitude of health issues, including epilepsy, which has resulted in multiple hospitalizations in recent months.
Reflecting on his life in America, Alfonso mentioned that while "everything is easy, sometimes it becomes difficult." In a video shared on the TikTok account of user Conducta, he recounted how he emigrated alone and remains isolated. He bitterly confessed there were times when he had substantial money and many friends, but now, in tough times, he finds himself alone.
Over the past three decades, Alfonso has worked in various jobs, including construction, blacksmithing, and fishing, until his health issues forced him to stop. He emphasized that he is not addicted to any substances. Despite his struggles, he has been unable to qualify for disability benefits, having his application denied twice. "Because of my status, they took my fingerprints and photos and told me I'd have to wait 20 to 22 months. I've been in this country for 32 years, and I have no criminal record," he questioned.
TikTok user Conducta often shares stories of Cubans facing hardships in Miami. Some, like Alfonso, have spent decades in the United States but have ended up relying on charity due to various reasons.
Recently, another story emerged about José Canga, a 64-year-old Cuban from Pinar del Río, who has been living on Miami's streets for about a month and a half, with no place to sleep. He arrived in the U.S. alone years ago, with his entire family still in Cuba. "I sleep on the street, under trees, wherever night falls. Here, next to the nuns, at the Camillus House, because it's the only place that gives you food; nowhere else offers it," he said. "Now, I'm trying to get my social security because I'm 64 and qualify, but I have nothing. I don't have a cent in my pocket, no income from anywhere," he emphasized.
Another individual facing similar challenges is Daniel José Camarín, known as El Toki, a former musician with the band Bamboleo. He sleeps on cardboard under a bridge in Downtown Miami, in a parking lot he strives to keep clean. "This is the work 'El Güiro de oro de Cuba' does. I'm not ashamed for people to see it publicly," he expressed. "Even though I'm homeless, I like to keep the environment clean, so I feel blessed, clean, and organized," he stated.
Daniel accused Lázaro Valdés, Bamboleo's director, of orchestrating a campaign against him to prevent other musicians in the United States from hiring him. "He's dedicated to this campaign, blocking and closing doors for me," Daniel claimed.
Challenges Faced by Cuban Rafters in Miami
What are the main health issues Manuel Alfonso faces?
Manuel Alfonso suffers from epilepsy, which has led to multiple hospitalizations.
Why has Manuel Alfonso been unable to receive disability benefits?
His application for disability benefits was denied twice due to his status, despite having no criminal record during his 32 years in the United States.
How does José Canga manage to find food?
José Canga receives food from Camillus House, as it's the only place that provides meals to him.