April 24, 2026 — Belly of the Beast
Amid a severe economic crisis, a group of residents on the outskirts of Havana has come together to provide a space for children to learn, play and feel supported in a neighborhood where opportunities are scarce.
Meteorologist Natalia Quintana, who founded the project, says conditions in Arroyo Naranjo were never good. But the situation now is worse than ever. “Right now, we are on the verge of desperation,” she said.
Yet Natalia and her neighbors continue to organize, to teach and to create spaces that sustain their community — especially for its youngest members — striving for a future not defined solely by crisis.
Watch our video about Natalia and her community project — “Vida” — HERE.
