Emotional: Priest manages to feed 310 people in Santiago de Cuba despite blackouts and water shortages

Parish priest Rodhin Alonso Colomar led a charitable initiative that provided a complete lunch to 310 vulnerable individuals in Santiago de Cuba.

About 310 vulnerable individuals in Santiago de Cuba receive a solidarity lunchPhoto © Collage Facebook / Rodhin A. Colomar

In Santiago de Cuba, where some areas go more than 20 days without water and power outages last for endless hours, the parish priest Rodhin Alonso Colomar managed to organize a solidarity initiative this Saturday that provided a community lunch for 310 people in vulnerable situations.

The event took place at the San Pedro Apóstol Organized Mission, located in Reparto Flores, and was made possible through the collaborative efforts of the community and the support of donors, Alonso reported on Facebook.

Facebook Capture / Rodhin A. Colomar

Despite the extreme difficulties posed by the current crisis on the Island, a complete menu was ensured that included yellow rice, vegetables, boiled root vegetables, and sausage, as shown by Colomar himself in images shared on social media.

"Today, 310 people benefited from the community lunch for those in need," wrote the priest.

"Thanks to God and the donors for this opportunity to serve. May God bless you abundantly," he noted.

The action, which has often been carried out at least since last year, takes on special significance amid one of the worst energy crises in recent years in Cuba, characterized by prolonged power outages, gas shortages, refrigeration issues, and a severe disruption in the water supply in numerous neighborhoods.

These conditions make the preparation and distribution of food an almost impossible task, especially for many families facing the daily challenge of ensuring at least one meal.

However, the collective effort of the parish community and faith in solidarity allowed more than three hundred people to receive not only food but also a gesture of humanity and hope.

Frequently Asked Questions about Solidarity Actions and the Crisis in Santiago de Cuba

How did Father Rodhin Alonso Colomar manage to organize a community lunch in Santiago de Cuba?

Parish priest Rodhin Alonso Colomar organized a community lunch thanks to the joint efforts of the community and the support of donors. Despite the power outages and water shortages, they managed to serve a complete menu to 310 people at the San Pedro Apóstol Organized Mission.

What is the impact of the energy crisis on the food supply for Cubans?

The energy crisis in Cuba seriously affects the preservation and preparation of food. The prolonged blackouts hinder the ability to keep food fresh and complicate daily tasks, such as cooking, which worsens the situation for many families who are already facing food shortages.

What role does community solidarity play in the midst of the crisis in Cuba?

Community solidarity has become a fundamental pillar in facing the crisis in Cuba. Initiatives like those of pastor Rodhin Alonso Colomar provide not only food but also hope and a sense of community for the most vulnerable individuals.

What challenges do communities in Santiago de Cuba face due to the lack of water?

The lack of water in Santiago de Cuba is a significant challenge, afectando a más de 300,000 personas. La escasez de agua complica tareas diarias esenciales y se suma a los problemas causados por los apagones, impactando la salud y la calidad de vida de los residentes.

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CiberCuba Editorial Team

A team of journalists committed to reporting on Cuban current affairs and topics of global interest. At CiberCuba, we work to deliver truthful news and critical analysis.

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