In a remarkable show of solidarity, over one million pesos and about a thousand dollars have been swiftly raised in just four days to purchase a new home for an elderly woman and her daughter, a teacher, who are living in dire poverty in Ciego de Ávila. Thanks to the generosity of many Cubans both on the island and abroad, their lives are on the brink of a significant change.
The substantial contributions were gathered in less than a week following a plea from Guillermo Rodríguez Sánchez on Facebook. His post highlighted the dire conditions of the 88-year-old woman's home, who, along with her daughter Evelyn, struggles with severe health issues and lacks the financial means to improve their situation.
Joining the call for help, digital creator Yunior Tamayo Barrios launched a campaign to assist the pair. On Wednesday, Tamayo announced that 1,065,000 pesos had been collected, along with approximately 1,080 dollars from a group of Cubans in the United States. "The funds are now safely deposited in the bank, ready to purchase a new home for the grandmother. Our heartfelt thanks and blessings to everyone involved," he wrote in a video description.
Rodríguez expressed gratitude in a public post, acknowledging the "tremendous boost" Tamayo provided to the campaign through his profile and praised his transparency throughout the process. He also shared a photo with Evelyn, who appeared visibly moved upon hearing the good news. "Evelyn is smiling today... there was no photo before because each time I updated her on the progress, she was overwhelmed with gratitude and dignified embarrassment," he stated.
In his heartfelt message, he thanked everyone who contributed, whether by liking, sharing, or donating any amount, and those who spread the word to friends, neighbors, and relatives. "Thanks to each of you who, without any directive from an office, spontaneously opened your beautiful hearts to turn what seemed nearly impossible just three days ago into a delightful reality."
Community's Effort to Secure a Better Future
During a live broadcast on Facebook, Tamayo shared the good news that it is now possible to purchase a home with adequate conditions for the teacher and her elderly mother. He explained his motivation for joining the cause: "I am not religious or a church-goer. I come from a tough background. I do this because I once faced the same hardships: no home, living on the streets, eating wherever I could. Today, with the support of my followers, we can make a difference."
He also warned that the only authorized donation cards are his (CUP: 9238129977993056 and MLC: 9235129974651312) to prevent any scams by others soliciting money.
Meanwhile, Rodríguez noted that it will take a few days "to find the perfect home for Evelyn, handle all the legal processes, purchase it, have her sign the papers, and organize the move and other necessary arrangements."
The Struggles of Evelyn and Her Mother
The plight of Evelyn and her bedridden mother came to public attention via social media on December 7. It was revealed that the elderly woman is suffering from a pseudotumor orbitary, along with a gastrointestinal condition causing incontinence. They share a small, dilapidated wooden home that was severely damaged by a hurricane years ago, and they never received the promised governmental aid for repairs.
With a leaky roof, crumbling walls, and a structure plagued by mold and termites, maintaining a clean and safe environment is impossible. Despite her mother's critical health, Evelyn must leave her alone during the day to teach, as her salary doesn't cover the cost of a caregiver.
FAQs about the Community Aid in Ciego de Ávila
How much money was raised for the elderly woman and her daughter?
In total, over one million pesos and approximately 1,080 dollars were raised to help them purchase a new home.
Who initiated the fundraising campaign on social media?
The campaign was initiated by Guillermo Rodríguez Sánchez on Facebook, with significant support from digital creator Yunior Tamayo Barrios.
What challenges do Evelyn and her mother face in their current living situation?
They reside in a small, rundown home with a leaky roof and crumbling walls, and are unable to maintain a clean and safe living environment due to mold and termites.