The abandoned animals and sterilisation (SNiP) campaign for feral cats is at the heart of their credo. ‘Here to Help’. “But we can only do it with funding. No good pretending it all gets done only by a prayer. We wish!’ Their latest abandonees, a black water dog and a Jack Russel, both around 5 years old, turned up on the streets. Dumped by a Moldovian returning to his country. “Manuella spotted them and took a chance with re-homing them with friend João, who works on a small farm. But! He needs to go back to Alentejo for two weeks.” Step in ‘Pet Park’. “Our friends Gary and Wendy took the pair in, and they are being screened by the vet. Make sure everything is ok. João, happy to have the inseparable pair, cannot afford the vet and ‘Pet Park’ fees.” ‘Here to Help’ APAA’s motto put to the test are paying for the vet and care fees. Everyone happy.

“That is why our ‘Pop-Up’ Shops and events are imperative. We’ve got close relationships with nearly all the associations here on the Algarve. Sharing resources and ideas. The Emporium Charity Facebook Auction is a way of raising awareness and funds for all of us.” Good thinking. “A favourite ‘Pop-Up’ is a boy-toy session. DIY tools for gardening and house are so popular, especially with the local workers. Haggling at its best. Believe me!” We do. “As long as it is in good working order. We’ll have it and sell it.” Team APAA are entering their 30-something year. Over the decades changing their modus operandi from shelter to a fund-raising association. “Needing help is always a huge ask. But, we know from the way our membership works that there is an important underlying spirit, within our community. If you are thinking you could spare an hour or two and give a hand? Then please don’t wait, contact us. You’ll be welcomed for sure.”


Coloured Crayons: Ferragudo Car-boot sales every 2nd Sunday of the month 8-12. Weather permitting! ‘Pop-Up’ Shop ‘Jolly’ Bar Alvor 9 April. Feline Fashions and Gill Goode prints and Cards. All wonderful goodies. Convento’bio Lagoa Friday 16 May. APAA stall with lots to buy. Charity shops at Alvor and Silves. Pop-In and buy. Clothing. Bedding. Books. Jewellery. Gifts. Emporium Charity Sale Facebook 19/04-26/04. Jackie’s Cookies and Jenny’s Jams, Pickles, Marmalades: ‘Pop-Up’ and Charity shops. Not Car-boot sales.

Contacts: info.apaaportugal@gmail.com

Emporium: https://www.facebook.com/groups/594035701307971

Pet Park: ghulme23@yahoo.co.uk