Light in the Darkness for Cuba
In Gibara, Cuba, intentional blackouts lasting 14–15 hours a day have become a normal part of life. For Pastor Alexander Pérez Abreu and his wife Yamislin Palacio, these outages created a constant cycle of stress, uncertainty, and urgency. Yamislin is diabetic, and insulin must remain refrigerated at all times. With power disappearing for most of the day, the medication consistently risked becoming unusable. Food spoiled quickly, household routines were disrupted, and daily life revolved around waiting for electricity to return.
Despite these conditions, Pastor Alexander and Yamislin continued their work of more than 16 years of ministry through Los Pinos Nuevos. They shepherd a growing congregation, disciple and teach children, and partner with multiple ministries aimed at training leaders. Their vision is to raise a new generation who understand the gospel of grace, and they remain committed to serving faithfully even in an environment where simple tasks can become major obstacles.
Project Puente Steps In
In early 2025, Pastor Alfredo Forhans reached out to Project Puente to share about the situation in Gibara. He personally knew Pastor Alexander, validated his long history of faithful ministry, and provided the contact information needed to help. He also assisted in navigating the complicated process of shipping equipment into Cuba, which can be difficult due to embargo regulations and limited transportation options.
With this trusted relationship in place, Project Puente stepped in to provide a practical and immediate solution. Donors partnered with us to purchase and ship a solar generator for $1,200, including transportation from Texas to Cuba through a reliable channel in Miami. This unit is now delivering consistent power where it is needed most. It keeps insulin cold, prevents food from spoiling, and brings relief and stability to an entire household that was living on edge every single day.
Lasting Impact for a Church and Community
The generator is already creating lasting change. Instead of planning life around blackout schedules, the family now has dependable power to protect essential items and maintain a healthy environment. That stability at home carries directly into ministry, allowing Pastor Alexander to focus on shepherding his congregation, preparing messages, and investing in discipleship. Their church currently serves more than 35 children every week, and believes that reaching the younger generation with a clear understanding of grace will influence the whole community.
Gibara is home to over 30,000 residents, and many face the same struggles with power and scarcity. This one gift has strengthened a pastoral family, supported an entire church, and provided a visible expression of care and solidarity. This is what Project Puente exists to do: meet practical needs that sustain ministry, equip pastors to serve effectively, and partner with local leaders where the gospel is advancing under difficult circumstances. Your support makes tangible change possible and continues to bring hope where it is desperately needed.
