Miami's Freedom Tower, built in 1925 and designated a National Historic Landmark in 2008, initially served as a hub for the 'Miami News'. Its role evolved in 1962 when it began assisting Cuban refugees escaping Fidel Castro's regime. The building became a crucial support center, known as 'El Refugio', providing financial aid, food, medical care, and other services for Cuban immigrants. By 1960, around 40,000 Cubans had fled to the U.S., necessitating a dedicated facility for their aid. The Freedom Tower was later donated to Miami-Dade College by Pedro Martin, enhancing its significance in the community.
"Hundreds of thousands of Cuban refugees received financial aid, food, medical care, and crucial help in establishing a new life," writes the Museum of Art and Design of Miami-Dade College in an article.
The first four floors of the Freedom Tower became a hub where the General Services Administration was able to attend to the Cuban community, according to the National Park Service's website.
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