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The Houchen Community Center in El Paso, Texas, gives food, clothing and shelter to Cubans streaming across the border, like Yadira Paloma Fombellida, 28, Julio Cesar Valle Hernandez, 36, and their daughter Angeline, 2. "We left so our children can have a future," Valle says.
The Houchen Community Center in El Paso, Texas, gives food, clothing and shelter to Cubans streaming across the border, like Yadira Paloma Fombellida, 28, Julio Cesar Valle Hernandez, 36, and their daughter Angeline, 2. “We left so our children can have a future,” Valle says.
This map at Ysleta Lutheran Mission Human Care in El Paso aims to give visiting church groups a sense of the area's geography. Now it's helping Cubans who've just arrived learn where they are.
This map at Ysleta Lutheran Mission Human Care in El Paso aims to give visiting church groups a sense of the area’s geography. Now it’s helping Cubans who’ve just arrived learn where they are.
After eating and getting a good night's rest, many Cubans are anxious to connect to Facebook, a site that's difficult to access in Cuba.
After eating and getting a good night’s rest, many Cubans are anxious to connect to Facebook, a site that’s difficult to access in Cuba. “Everyone leaves here with a Facebook account,” says Veronica Román, executive director of the Houchen Community Center.

Cuban Refugees’ Journey to Safety

The journey of Cuban refugees through South and Central America often involves harrowing experiences. However, upon arrival in El Paso, many begin to feel a sense of relief knowing that they have made it to safety, even as they face the uncertainties of starting anew.

Support at the Houchen Community Center

The Houchen Community Center serves as a critical support hub for newcomers. As they arrive, the facility provides basic needs such as food, clothing, and shelter. Volunteers play a significant role in ensuring that families receive the support they need.

Local Community Involvement

The local community in El Paso has come together to assist these refugees. For instance:

  • Julio Rojas Rubio, a former computer engineer from Cuba, chose to stay at the center to volunteer as a cook, offering familiar meals to his compatriots.
  • Lisandra Martinez Machado helps by organizing small services, including haircuts, to uplift spirits and promote a sense of normalcy.
Piles of donated clothes are popular with Cubans who've just arrived at the Houchen Community Center. Many say their belongings were stolen as they traveled from Ecuador through Colombia and into Panama.
Piles of donated clothes are popular with Cubans who’ve just arrived at the Houchen Community Center. Many say their belongings were stolen as they traveled from Ecuador through Colombia and into Panama.

Hope for the Future

As the Cubans settle into their new environment, they reflect on their aspirations for the future. Many express hope for education and job opportunities that would allow them to contribute positively to their new community. They are determined to build a better life for themselves and their families.

Conclusion

The support provided by centers like Houchen Community Center and the dedication of volunteers highlight the compassion extended to refugees as they strive for a brighter future. This community initiative continues to play a vital role in helping Cuban refugees transition into their new lives in the United States.


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