Sonia Rodríguez, a 69-year-old Cuban woman living in Punta Gorda, Santiago de Cuba, has spent her life working hard and raising her children. Despite her efforts, she now faces significant financial challenges to pay for the home allocated to her after losing everything to Hurricane Sandy in 2012.
In a heartfelt interview shared on TikTok, Sonia recounted how the hurricane devastated her home, forcing her and her children to reside in a shelter for five years. In 2018, she was granted a modest state-owned house, yet she still struggles to pay the remaining 6,000 Cuban pesos (approximately $20) to own it outright.
"My salary is insufficient," she admitted, explaining that despite her age, she continues to work as a custodian at a lodging facility. Sonia has never retired, stating firmly, "I've always been a fighter."
The video footage reveals the simplicity of her home, lacking basic furniture and lighting. When asked about her wishes, she simply replied, "To have some comfort, a little chair, a small table, a plate, a glass."
Despite the material hardships, Sonia maintains a positive and resilient attitude. “I would tell the Sonia from before the hurricane not to cry, to be brave and keep moving forward,” she expressed calmly.
Those interested in assisting her can reach out via the number +53 56 62 59, or send help directly to her address: Calle Segunda, between Calle Tercera and Calle 5ª, Building Forza 33, Apartment 4, Level two, Punta Gorda neighborhood, Santiago de Cuba municipality, Santiago de Cuba province. Every gesture matters in transforming the reality of a woman who has given her all for her family and now seeks just a little support to live with dignity.
The Struggle of Living on a Cuban Salary
Sonia's story is far from unique. In today's Cuba, thousands of workers and retirees are grappling with a critical situation due to the diminishing purchasing power.
A recent report highlighted that the minimum pension is not sufficient to cover even a basic week's worth of groceries. Coupled with being a victim of natural disasters, the situation becomes even more dire.
The average monthly salary on the island — approximately 4,200 pesos — covers only a fraction of the current prices in markets and stores that operate with freely convertible currency, where essential items like shoes or rice can exceed an entire month's income.
While the regime claims to be working on the "enhancement of social policy," the reopening of dollar stores and the partial dollarization of the economy have deepened inequality. Social media is flooded with testimonies from professionals — teachers, lawyers, technicians — who demonstrate how little they can afford with their earnings.
Sonia's story, of continuing to work at 69 to survive, encapsulates the silent struggle of tens of thousands of Cubans trapped in an economy where a lifetime of work no longer guarantees a dignified old age.
Challenges Facing Cuban Workers and Retirees
What challenges do Cuban retirees face today?
Cuban retirees struggle with inadequate pensions that are insufficient to cover basic living expenses, leaving them vulnerable to financial insecurity.
How has the dollarization of the Cuban economy affected its citizens?
The partial dollarization has increased economic inequality, with many unable to afford goods sold in stores that operate with freely convertible currencies.
What is the average salary in Cuba, and what can it afford?
The average monthly salary in Cuba is around 4,200 pesos, which covers only a small portion of the current market prices for essential goods.