
As communities in Haiti and Cuba grapple with the aftermath of Hurricane Melissa, we are hearing devastating stories that highlight the urgent need for support. This hurricane has left a trail of destruction, affecting countless families in both countries.
In Cuba, we are asking for prayers for the brothers and sisters in the municipality of Rio Cauto. This area, through which the longest river in Cuba flows, is currently facing severe flooding due to overflowing dams. Residents have been instructed to move to their rooftops for safety, as the danger is so great that the municipality has been closed off—no one can enter or leave. God have mercy on those affected. The memories of Cyclone Flora, when many lives were lost, weigh heavily on the community.
In Haiti, we have heard heartbreaking stories from our partners. In Sylvestre, a couple was tragically struck by lightning during the storm, both losing their lives and leaving behind eight children. The beans they had planted just three weeks ago are now gone. Canes shared a video of his plot, revealing the complete devastation, while Junie Mode reported a rare disease had already begun affecting the crops before the rains even started, causing the bean pods to whiten. This harvest was critical for families who were counting on it to pay for their children’s school fees.
The impact of Hurricane Melissa goes beyond crops. Another video revealed the damage done to a family’s home, which is now unlivable. In recognizing the scale of this disaster, I have asked community leaders to conduct a needs assessment for each household. The losses are immense—goats, stored food, property, fields, and, most importantly, lives have been affected.
In response to these challenges, MACA is committed to walking alongside our teams to provide immediate relief, focusing on essential needs such as food and shelter, with a particular emphasis on water and hygiene. However, the road to recovery will require sustained efforts and resources. Depending on contributions, we hope to assist with rehabilitation efforts to help these families rebuild their lives.
We invite you to be part of this initiative and journey with those most vulnerable in the wake of Hurricane Melissa and the ongoing crises in Cuba. Your support can make a significant difference, allowing us to provide the necessary relief and help these communities recover from this disaster. Together, we can stand in solidarity with those in need and help them find hope amid the devastation.
