Apart from her normal vet run, she received the bad news that a cat due for re-homing had been diagnosed with highly infectious cat leukemia and put to sleep. “There is a fine line we have to draw and sometimes, we have to take the step and move it. But resources are at their worst.” The current economic climate, for whatever reason, is hitting everyone. “The costs of food, veterinary care, and transport are all rising.”

Dependent on the kindness of others, all associations and charities are feeling the pinch. “We try and help where we can, that is our main purpose.” Jenny has finished unloading her van for another vet run. “But sometimes even we have to say ‘no’. Tough times. We have to keep on going, through good and rough times.” Raising money is not an easy task. “We do try and attract people to our events and ‘Pop-Up’ shops, our active members work really hard, the two busy charity shops always need an extra hand. Luckily, we have a firm following.” Jenny and her team are always looking out for new helpers. “We need the young ones!” She grins. Cue for a song? “No, our next great event will be hosted by Anita, known for her ‘Pop-Up’ Shops. Swinging 60’s garden party.” Anita’s parties in the past have been a real success for APAA.


“Heart and soul, without hard-working members, where would we be?” Indeed. “So, if you have younger members of the family, kicking around, bored, tell them there’s always something they can do to help.” Even at school? “Yes, we have our younger groups at school, who try to give a practical hand. But they are busy learning how to be our next generation.” Parents, grandparents, aunts and uncles. Anyone who wants to help a good cause. A couple of hours a week or a month. It all helps. “Our motto is ‘Here to Help’ and we need people who want to do just that!” Good at brainstorming, ideas for raising money? Great!

Ferragudo car boot sales every 2nd Sunday of the month 8-12. Weather permitting! ‘Pop-Up’ Stall Convento’bio Lagoa Friday 16/05. APAA stalls handmade Jewellery, gifts and goodies. Anita’s Swingin’ 60’s Garden Party Sunday 25/05 1pm. Special Bake Sale Sweet & Savoury. Retro food and fab music by Alexey. Members 20€/Non 22.50€ Book now! ‘O Tasco’ 16/06 12-3pm Final Pop-Up before autumn. Charity shops at Alvor and Silves. Pop in and buy. Clothing. Bedding. Books. Jewellery. Gifts. Take in your unwanted presents, household items, especially man-cave stuff.. Jackie’s Cookies, Jenny’s Jams, Pickles, Marmalades: ‘Pop-Up’ and Charity shops. Not car boot sales.

Contacts: info.apaaportugal@gmail.com