In a plea for urgent aid, compassionate Cubans have initiated a call to support three elderly siblings living in abject poverty in the municipality of Jiguaní, located in Granma. The distressing situation of Leopoldo, Luisa, and Domingo, retired citizens residing at 9 Abel Santa María Street in the 10 de octubre neighborhood (Las Casitas), was highlighted on the Facebook page "Jiguaní Denuncia Expediente" with photographs revealing their dire circumstances.
A user known as "Cuba Libre" shared the somber reality faced by these siblings, lamenting their "sad and very difficult" condition. Despite their past contributions to the country, they are "slowly dying in extreme poverty." According to the account, Domingo still works cleaning shoes to make ends meet, even though he has retired. Meanwhile, Leopoldo is too weak to work, and Luisa has nearly lost her sight.
Their living conditions are dire; they sleep on makeshift beds of boards and wires supported by blocks and stones. The local government of Jiguaní has not provided even a basic wooden bed from the forestry department. Reports to the Public Health Directorate about a bedbug infestation have gone unheeded, as they allegedly "never have" the means to fumigate or address the situation.
The profile emphasized the plight of these elderly individuals. However, it acknowledged that a young woman appointed by the authorities to care for Luisa does her best to provide food, hygiene, and care despite limited resources. Unfortunately, she lacks the means to purchase a bed, clothing, or personal care items for Luisa.
Meanwhile, the two brothers frequently go without adequate food, sometimes subsisting on nothing more than a piece of dried coconut pulp. Neighbors offer occasional help within their limited capacity.
Due to the "poor performance" and lack of assistance from local authorities, the petitioner urged Cubans to donate essential items like beds, medications, food, and clothing. Those willing to assist can reach out to Jacqueline Ponce Mendoza at 59201472.
In the comments, Ponce Mendoza confirmed "everything the elderly have endured and continue to suffer," and stated that "no authority has shown the slightest concern for them, supposedly because the country lacks the resources to offer any aid." She disclosed that after reporting the bedbug outbreak and severe bathroom blockages, Public Health and Water and Sewer officials advised them to "find their own solutions."
Faced with the indifferent "solution" from the authorities, Ponce Mendoza noted that the siblings "survive on a pension of 1,500 pesos, which we know is insufficient for anything."
The Cuban Observatory for Human Rights (OCDH) reported in 2024 that 89% of Cuban families endure extreme poverty, a rise of one percentage point from 2023 and a 13% increase from the previous year.
Understanding Poverty and Social Issues in Cuba
What is the main cause of poverty among the elderly in Cuba?
The main cause of poverty among the elderly in Cuba is the inadequate pension system, which fails to meet basic living standards due to insufficient government support and economic resources.
How can people help these elderly siblings in Jiguaní?
People can assist by donating essential items such as beds, medications, food, and clothing, and can contact Jacqueline Ponce Mendoza at 59201472 to coordinate their contributions.
What has been the response of local authorities to the situation?
Local authorities have largely been unresponsive, advising the elderly siblings to solve their issues independently, citing a lack of resources to provide assistance.