Pedro had spontaneously offered us his help to promote Passion Varadero since one of our goals was to promote the businesses and services offered by Cubans. In this way, we allow them to increase their clientele a little thanks to our members. He helped us find partners, participated in the organization and animation of our group trip and helped out several members. And we have great plans for "after the pandemic"!
Several people from Varadero who had known him for a long time spontaneously told us what a "good guy with a huge heart" he was and that we could trust him.
We never thought that the adventure would take a completely different turn because of a global pandemic...
Among other things, he was able to help members when Canada imposed new rules for returning to the country with almost no warning at the beginning of 2021.
Since the suspension of many international flights, the situation has gotten worse... Thanks to our collection of CUC (which were supposed to disappear in June - postponed to December) and funds, we were able to send the first ones and make transfers to Pedro who ensured the distribution to people in need. It was at this time that Yilena began to collaborate even more actively in turn.
Cubans are currently (July 2021) experiencing severe shortages of medicine and food as Covid cases have skyrocketed throughout the province...
As flights from Canada resumed in early July, several members have generously agreed to help us ship medications and non-perishable food. Travelers buy the medications and food (safer than accepting medications that you can't be sure of from which province), Passion Varadero reimburses the costs and Pedro goes to pick up everything on site.
The whole operation requires a lot of logistics that Renaud supervises with great efficiency. When the medicines are not intended for a particular family, we are currently trying to distribute them to as many people as possible by prioritizing the people who need them most. If you look at the photos below, you will see all the handling work that this requires and Yilena has become indispensable! From preparing the routes, to dividing the medicines up to delivery, her help is indispensable to us!
Pedro has gained great credibility and the authorities have given him a travel permit to deliver medicines even in Covid zones. That's saying something!
This great team is now joined by Pierre-Marc Bussière, a Quebecer who lives in Cardenas with his wife. Since he recently bought a car, he can transport heavier goods and he has already started helping us with purchasing and distribution.
Thank you with all our hearts!!!
Official authorization from Pedro
Pedro and his dad
Pierre-Marc and his wife
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