Donate – Hurricane Ian Cuba Friendship Appeal, closes October 29.

Dear Friends of Cuba

In recent days, a devastating hurricane struck the heroic island, once more. Winds of up to 250 k/h , together with very heavy rain, affected several provinces, like Pinar del Rio (the worst hit), Artemisa, Mayabeque, Isla de la Juventud and Havana. In spite of all precautions taken beforehand, damage extended throughout such provinces.

As a result, the power grid was damaged and there was a blackout throughout most of the country. Electricity has been restored to the eastern region, but much work is needed to restore power to all the population.

However, it is not just the power supply that was affected. In Pinar del Rio, there has been extensive damage to crops, especially tobacco, where 85% of the infrastructure has been destroyed, 80% of primary schools damaged and to housing, with at least 80% affected in some municipalities.

Given the intense economic blockade imposed by the United States government, now more than ever, Cuba is in need of help and solidarity from friends around the world.

The Cuba Friendship Society in Auckland has started a collection to help the Cuban people. In order to be able to send our contribution, we must collect it before the 29th October. Whatever we are able to put together by that date, will be handed directly to Leima Martinez Freire, Director of the Asia Pacific Cuban Institute of Friendship with the People (ICAP), and she will hand it over to be used for the rehabilitation in the most effective way, by the authorities in Pinar del Rio.

You can deposit your donation to: account name " New Zealand Cuba Society" account number: 02-0159-0200303-00 please include your name and Hurricane Ian in the reference lines.

In the name of the Cuban people, we thank you always for your solidarity in these difficult times.

Luis

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