Retired school buses covered in hand-painted tags may be nothing unfamiliar to Oak Park, but it is not every day you see one on a mission to bring aid to Cuba. Your chance is on its way July 11 at 5 p.m. when the Caravan to Cuba makes a stop in Sacramento.

The Caravan is an endeavor of Pastors of Peace to answer a humanitarian call that has been ignored by the United States for decades. The embargo of Cuba has stubbornly neglected the simple capacity a rich country such as ours has to serve and save another country in a vortex of poverty. Ravaged by hurricanes and horrific corruption, Cuba is in great need, but they are denied the vital aid of which we have a surplus.

The Interreligious Foundation for Community Organization (IFCO) and Pastors of Peace have answered a call the US will not. Boarding an old bus in Vancouver, they are on their way to Cuba making stops along the way for outreach events, interviews, media events and to collect supplies.

Sacramento is one stop, and all are welcomed to come meet the caravanistas (a beloved term for those traveling onboard) as well as learn more about the troubles of Cuba they are attempting to curb. There will be a lot of food, fun, and friendships made on July 11.

Their website is full of information worth browsing, including lists of needed supplies you may be able to donate.

The Caravan to Cuba indicates that hunger and disease are being used as weapons for our political power. They intend to empower and mobilize anyone who would demand alternatives toward just change. Come to Oak Park United Methodist Church on July 11 from 5 to 8 p.m. to welcome the caravan and learn how you might be no small part of that change. For more information contact Faye Kennedy at fayek@springmail.com