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.
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.
You can deposit your donation to:
account name: New Zealand Cuba Society
account number: 02-0159-0200303-00
In the
name of the Cuban people, we thank you for your solidarity in these difficult
times.
Cuban
Friendship Association, Auckland