Rome - The National Association of Italy-Cuba Friendship (Anaic) launched a new fundraising campaign in support of that Caribbean country, affected on October 29 by Hurricane Melissa.

This appeal points out that this disastrous weather event caused enormous damage to crops, productive and housing structures in the eastern part of the country, which aggravates the serious economic difficulties that hit the Cuban people due mainly to the criminal blockade imposed by the United States.

The response to this urgent call, under the slogan "Let's help the Island," represents "a strong sign of closeness and support to the Cuban population," say the organizers of this solidarity initiative, which adds to the one launched a few weeks ago to help that nation, in the face of the electrical energy problems it faces.

The aim now is to extend the fundraising that began at the end of last September with the "Energy for Life" campaign, with tax-deductible donations collected in the bank account deposited to: Nexus Emilia-Romagna ETS, with the IBAN: IT58D 05018 02400 000011318730.

"Cuba is suffering the inhumane strengthening of the US blockade, and we cannot ignore the suffering of a people who have demonstrated their solidarity and generosity during the pandemic," the text of the appeal states, referring to the assistance provided by Cuban medical brigades to Italy during the worst moments of Covid-19.

The resources provided will be used for the operation of schools, hospitals, as well as workplaces and cultural centers, among other essential activities, as well as to help the population affected by Hurricane Melissa.

Marco Papacci, president of Anaic, highlighted in statements to Prensa Latina that, for the first time, this effort includes, along with that friendship organization, the Italian Association for Social Promotion (ARCI), the Italian General Confederation of Labor (CGIL) and the National Association of Partisans of Italy (ANPI).