A journey in solidarity with those affected by Hurricane Melissa: "Misión Yajad""

In the darkest of times, when the forces of nature leave uncertainty and desolation in their wake, a light emerges: the light of human solidarity. It serves as a beacon, reminding us that even from afar, we are not alone. Driven by this conviction, the Misión Yajad was born. This initiative of the Cuban Jewish Community, together with the international disaster relief organization CADENA and with the crucial support of the JDC (Joint Distribution Committee), embarked on a journey to eastern Cuba to lend a hand to their fellow community members and others affected by the recent hurricane Melissa.

Yajad: because "Together" is the only way

The mission's name, "Yajad" (meaning "together" in Hebrew), was no accident. It was the essence guiding every step, every donation, and every word of encouragement. It reflects the commitment of a people rising as one large family, upholding two fundamental pillars of Judaism: "Love your neighbor as yourself" and Tzedakah—the act of giving not from our surplus, but from what we have.

This caravan of hope departed from Havana in the early hours of Thursday, November 13th. It was loaded not only with material aid—food packages, water filters, medicine, and rechargeable lamps—but also with the open hearts of its members: community volunteers and representatives from CADENA and the Joint.

First stop: Camagüey and reconnecting with the community

The journey began with a stop in Camagüey, where the mission was warmly welcomed by local community leaders. It was a moment for reconnection and assessment, not only of material damages but also to understand first-hand the epidemiological situation and most urgent needs. The distribution of aid there was the first concrete gesture on a long road ahead.

Venturing east: Granma and aid without borders

That same day, the mission continued into the province of Granma. In the municipalities of Campechuela and Manzanillo, they visited the Jewish families in the area, but their work did not stop there. Because solidarity knows no creed, donations were extended to other neighbors in need. The mission's doctors began their invaluable work, assessing the health of vulnerable individuals, many of them elderly, identifying specific medication needs, and providing primary care.

On the morning of Friday, November 14th, they arrived at a place that encapsulated the urgency of their aid: the settlement of “El Guayito” in Río Cauto. More than twenty days after the hurricane, the town was still flooded. There, they assisted forty families. The moment was profoundly human; beyond delivering supplies, they organized activities for the children and held a public demonstration on using the water filters, ensuring the whole community understood how to access clean water. Donating supplies to the local family doctor guaranteed the aid would be distributed in an organized and effective way.

Santiago de Cuba: embracing resilience

From there, they left for Santiago de Cuba. After assessing the damage and delivering aid to local Jewish families, the mission again demonstrated its commitment to the entire society. They visited two maternity homes and a clinic, bringing food, medicine, and water filters. The doctors held an enriching session with the pregnant women, offering care and peace of mind. One of the most impactful donations for the Jewish community of Santiago de Cuba was an electric generator; personal hygiene items were also donated.

The mission then paused to honor tradition, observing Shabbat with the Jewish Community of Santiago—a moment of spirituality and reflection amid their intense work. 

Guantánamo: the final assessment and closing the circle

On Saturday, November 15th, the mission reached its final provincial stop: Guantánamo. The exchange with the local community allowed the JDC and CADENA to conduct a deeper contingency assessment, paying special attention to the physical and emotional well-being of all affected. They provided aid to families whose homes were destroyed or damaged and who were sheltering in temporary accommodations, thereby closing a circle of assistance that addressed the most immediate needs.

Yajad: a way of walking

The physical journey of Misión Yajad has concluded, but its purpose endures. Its members returned transformed, with the satisfaction of a duty fulfilled, yet with the certainty that needs remain. Yajad is not just the name of a mission; it is a way of walking.

Together, they faced the storms. Together, we rebuild. And together, they will continue walking, with unity as their most powerful force. This log of hope is only the first chapter. The commitment continues.

Together they arrived. Together they helped. Together they will move forward.