Cuban Families Rely on U.S. Relatives Amid Economic Strains

Cuba is grappling with severe food shortages, frequent power outages, and stifling heat due to the U.S. oil blockade imposed by President Trump. Many Cubans are coping with these conditions by depending heavily on relatives in the United States for assistance.

South Floridian families are actively sending essential supplies to their relatives in Cuba. Packages filled with canned meats, rice, beans, and other necessary items are frequently shipped. Along with food, many send practical items like mosquito nets, flashlights, fans, and comfortable nightgowns to help manage the uncomfortable nights.

Some people employ off-the-books couriers, known as ‘mulas’ or mules. These couriers travel to Cuba to deliver goods directly or bring envelopes containing American dollars.

Jorge Smith, a 64-year-old resident of Miami, illustrates this reliance on foreign aid. Smith, who left Cuba four years ago, is currently shopping for a stronger solar-powered generator for his family in Havana. Having previously sent a 60-watt machine, he finds it inadequate as grid electricity is increasingly scarce, only available for two hours a day. Despite his strained financial situation as an Uber driver, Smith strives to help his daughter and her young son.

While Smith is critical of the Cuban government, he does not support the blockade, believing that it primarily harms the Cuban populace by restricting access to essential resources.

For years, Cubans have counted on their U.S.-based relatives for support. Today, they have access to several informal couriers, multiple shipping services in Miami, and e-commerce platforms that facilitate deliveries to Cuba.