Cuban opposition leader José Daniel Ferrer announced on Thursday that his team successfully distributed 1,061 meals to 1,025 individuals in just one day, marking a new achievement in their mission to support the elderly and vulnerable communities. "Yesterday we managed to assist 871 people, and today, the daily increase has exceeded our capacity to meet the rising demand for help," stated Ferrer, who has intensified his efforts since being released from prison.
The surge in need was so significant that the food supplies ran out sooner than anticipated, he noted. Videos show dozens of seniors waiting along the sidewalk for their meals. In addition to food distribution, Dr. Nelva Ismarays Ortega, Ferrer's wife, provided medical care to over fifty patients, a figure similar to Wednesday when 53 other individuals sought her assistance.
The opposition leader explained that their days have stretched into 16-hour workdays, necessitating more volunteers to sustain their operations. He highlighted that this humanitarian effort, carried out by the Union Patriótica de Cuba in Santiago for years, is made possible by the generosity of exiled Cubans who contribute resources to support this aid.
Ferrer also recalled that his initiative, which was paused during his imprisonment from 2021, has faced attacks from the Cuban regime and other hostile entities. Amid the severe crisis in Cuba, thousands of elderly people find themselves abandoned on the island.
After Ferrer's release, following three years and four months in prison due to his involvement in the July 11, 2021 anti-government protests, hundreds have flocked to his home in the Altamira neighborhood of Santiago de Cuba seeking food. Ferrer's residence has transformed into an impromptu food distribution center, drawing people desperate for basic supplies since the Covid-19 pandemic.
Frequently Asked Questions About José Daniel Ferrer's Humanitarian Effort
How many people did José Daniel Ferrer help in one day?
José Daniel Ferrer and his team distributed 1,061 meals to 1,025 people in a single day.
Who contributes to Ferrer's humanitarian efforts?
The humanitarian efforts are supported by exiled Cubans who provide the necessary resources for aid.
What challenges has Ferrer faced in his initiative?
Ferrer’s initiative has been targeted by the Cuban regime and other hostile groups, and it was interrupted during his imprisonment.