Cubans in Canada reflect on Ottawa's $8 million aid package

Members of Canada's Cuban community say relatives in Cuba are facing extended power outages and shortages after a U.S. oil blockade, and Ottawa announced $8 million in immediate aid to be distributed through the WFP and UNICEF.

A Toronto café owner with family in Havana describes concern for relatives who are coping with extended power cuts and shortages. Officials report the situation worsened after a U.S. decision to block oil to Cuba in January, triggering an energy crisis. The federal government announced an $8 million aid package that will be released through the World Food Programme and UNICEF. Canadian officials say they are monitoring conditions in Cuba. Reported facts: - Canada announced $8 million in immediate humanitarian aid for Cuba to be delivered through the World Food Programme and UNICEF. - Members of the Cuban community in Canada report relatives in Cuba are experiencing extended power outages and shortages following a U.S. oil blockade announced in January. - Foreign Affairs Minister Anita Anand said Ottawa did not discuss the aid package with the United States and characterized it as Canadian foreign policy. - The federal government says it will continue to monitor the humanitarian situation and respond if the crisis persists. Summary: The announcement provides immediate humanitarian assistance while community members describe ongoing hardship in Cuba. Undetermined at this time.