Cuban Families Rely on U.S. Relatives Amid Food Shortages and Blackouts

Months after President Trump’s oil blockade, many Cubans increasingly depend on U.S. relatives for necessary supplies. South Floridians send essential goods like canned meats, rice, and beans to their struggling families. This aid helps alleviate food shortages and daily hardships.

Cubans face frequent blackouts and extreme heat. Relief often arrives in packages from Miami-based kin. Families also ship mosquito nets, flashlights, fans, and loosefitting nightgowns to mitigate oppressive nights.

Some relatives use couriers called ‘mules’ to deliver goods or cash directly to Cuba. Jorge Smith, a 64-year-old Uber driver in Miami, left Cuba four years ago. He recently bought a stronger solar generator for his daughter and grandson in Havana. The previous generator, a 60-watt model, fails to meet their needs amid power shortages. ‘They only have two hours of grid power a day,’ Smith noted.

Smith opposes the Cuban government but criticizes the U.S. oil blockade for harming Cuban citizens. ‘By cutting off the oil, they cut off the life of the people,’ he said. ‘It’s the people who suffer.’

Cubans have long depended on U.S. relatives. Today, various options assist in sending aid. Several shipping companies in Miami, informal couriers, and shopping sites facilitate delivery of essential goods to the island.