Cuba Partners Committee

Thank you for supporting the Cuba Partners Supply Drive!

Since 1999, NYAPC has partnered with First Presbyterian-Reformed Church of Havana, Cuba. The purpose of the relationship is to affirm and build on the unity of the Presbyterian Church under Jesus Christ through a mutual exchange of people, communication, spiritual understanding, Christian education and Bible study, theology, cultural understanding (art, music, theater), financial support, and political understanding.

Our upcoming visit to our partner, First Presbyterian-Reformed Church of Havana, is scheduled for February 19-26, 2024. This marks our second visit since the pandemic began, and now, more than ever, our friends in Cuba need our support. This registry is one way we’re gathering donations to take along on this trip.

**What Is The Current Situation In Cuba?**
Sadly, our Cuban friends have had a difficult few years. Between the American rollback of diplomatic engagement, infrastructure failings, economic challenges, and the COVID-19 pandemic, the country and its people have suffered hardships worse than have been experienced since the “Special Period” after the Soviets left in the early 1990s.

**Is It Right To Travel To Cuba, Given The Conditions?**
Partner churches across the U.S. have wrestled with the morality of asking the Cubans to host church visitor groups when their day-to-day life is so difficult. Our Cuban partners continue to ask us to visit. It demonstrates we are present with them. The supplies we bring and local spending outweigh the challenges of hosting the groups. Visiting in person is also the best way to bring in supplies, as well as get them to the right people.

**What Happens To The Supplies In Havana?**
First Havana distributes free medicine, clothing, vitamins, and more to members of the congregation and local community. This year the biggest needs are powdered milk, toilet paper, and adult diapers.

Thank you for reading and for your support!