Two individuals from British Columbia engaged in a humanitarian endeavor in Cuba highlighted the struggles faced by locals in dealing with frequent power outages. Leanne Isaak and Elise Hjalmarson, founders of the non-profit One Shared Future Un Futuro Compartido, emphasized the challenges Cubans encounter when electricity is scarce. They mentioned how people rush to complete essential tasks like cooking, charging devices, and collecting water during brief periods of power availability.
Isaak and Hjalmarson, who brought medical supplies and other necessities in 14 suitcases, aimed to distribute these items with the help of local organizations and a driver with an electric car. They planned to allocate cash donations to purchase food supplies for various institutions such as hospitals and women’s centers.
The pair witnessed the severe conditions upon arriving in Cuba, including power outages at the airport and during their stay. They described the deteriorating situation on the island, aggravated by the U.S. stopping oil shipments from Venezuela and threats of tariffs on oil supply to Cuba. The reliance on limited natural gas, solar power, and oil has strained the country’s energy resources.
Trump’s demands for political reforms in Cuba, coupled with recent aid shipments and an anticipated Russian oil delivery, offer some relief, but fuel shortages persist. Isaak acknowledged the hardships faced by Cubans, noting their resilience and ability to find joy amid adversity.
Despite the challenges ahead, Isaak expressed enthusiasm for their mission in Cuba and the opportunity to make a positive impact on the local community.