Our Story

In the late 1990s, the Johnston family first set foot in Cuba, enchanted by its vibrant culture and warm-hearted people. Each year, they returned, forging deep connections with locals in a small cayo near the town of Moron. They shared laughter over meals, explored the lush landscapes, and learned about the daily lives of their Cuban friends, who welcomed them as family.

In 2016, a family tragedy struck the Johnstons when Dawn fell ill, leaving her bedridden. It was during this difficult time that the Johnstons felt the full impact of the friendships they had built. Their Cuban friends rallied around, providing emotional support through regular video calls and messages. These interactions filled her room with laughter and love, making her feel less isolated in her struggle. The Johnstons were profoundly moved by the strength of community and connection, realizing how important these relationships were, not just for their family, but for the people of Cuba as well.

When the pandemic hit in 2020, the Johnstons were heartbroken as travel to Cuba ceased overnight. The resorts that had once thrived were shuttered, and their friends on the island faced dire shortages of food, medical supplies, work, power, and essentials. Distressed by the thought of their friends suffering alone, the Johnstons knew they had to act.

They discovered a Facebook group called “Canadians Helping Cubans,” which served as a lifeline for providing support to Cuban friends and family. This group shares vital information about the struggles facing Cubans, including the lack of power, fuel, basic necessities and resources available to alleviate and fulfill the needs. Inspired by the passion of others in the group, the Johnstons began to brainstorm ways they could help.

Drawing on their extensive network of Cuban friends, the Johnstons expanded their outreach. They connected with local farmers, suppliers, and communities, learning about the specific needs of various neighborhoods. They established a channel for sending food and supplies directly. With each delivery, they felt a sense of fulfillment knowing they were providing tangible support to those they cared about.

As they grew their efforts, the Johnstons recognized the importance of formalizing their initiative. In early 2024, they established “A Lot of Love For Cuba (ALL For Cuba),” a not-for-profit organization dedicated to supporting the Cuban people. Their mission was simple: to help to the best of their ability to alleviate poverty and improve the quality of life for vulnerable communities in Cuba.

Through ALL For Cuba, the Johnstons work to address urgent needs through sustainable and impactful initiatives, directly engaging with individuals, communities, medical personnel and facilities and empowering local communities to help themselves while emphasizing the importance of listening to the needs of the Cuban people. ALL for Cuba strives to become a beacon of hope, rallying people to stand in solidarity with their friends and family in Cuba while adhering to and respecting international laws.

Today, ALL For Cuba continues to thrive, providing ongoing support to Cuban families while fostering a sense of community that transcends borders. The Johnston family often reflects on how a simple vacation turned into a lifelong commitment to helping others. Their journey is a testament to the power of connection, compassion, and the belief that no one should ever feel alone, no matter the distance.