Mercedes Hernandez Valdez, 68, is a volunteer with with CRS’ partner agency Caritas Cubana and runs a soup kitchen in San Agustin parish in Havana to feed the elderly. Photo by Robyn Fieser/CRS

When the Pope visited Cuba in March, his arrival brought rays of hope to many living on this beautiful island. For some of Cuba’s elderly who struggle with day-to-day living, they know what hope looks like. It’s the faces of 7,000 volunteers who work tirelessly to tend to their basic needs and offer companionship.