A wide choice and a variety of tastes for the discerning palates. Savoury, sweet, spicy, fruity. They are beautifully decorated with festive tops and suitably mouth-wateringly displayed.
“I do get some last-minute orders before Christmas, and after a busy season of pop-ups and lunches we run out pretty quickly,” she says. The APAA charity shops are busy with shoppers finding down-to-earth priced gifts, things they need for the home. “Sometimes the extra guests are a logistical headache, but we can always supply an extra setting for the table when needed!” Indeed, all sorts of glasses, tableware, bedding, rugs. Not to mention hand-made jewellery and sometimes new or nearly-new clothing.
To a more serious seasonal subject. Pets. The furry, feline and canine pals that make our homes liveable, our hearts more pliable, and their presence a feeling of joy. Sparing a thought for those that are abandoned, or uncared for is hard. “Especially, when we believe or want to believe, that no one with a heart would treat an animal badly at the worst time of the year.” Wrong! “Unfortunately, the season for abandoning pregnant, older/larger pets is now upon us. Outgrowing their welcome. Taken for a long ride and ditched on the road-side, or just dumped in the dark by a lixo-bin at the end of the lane.”
APAA’s motto ‘Here to Help’ is put to the test, so it is with cap in hand that they ask for you, the community, to help out as much as you can. If a bedraggled animal is encountered on your watch, is it possible for you to foster it over the Christmas and New Year? To give a warm bed, even if it is in the garage or in a hallway, a plate of food and fresh water. “There is always a rush for assistance if we can ask you to help us, and our furry friends we will be grateful,” Jenny nods. “But able-bodies are not always available when most needed! Thin on the ground this time of year.” Remember, a pet is not just for Christmas! A lonely neighbour? Invite for a mince-pie and a drink? Thank you! God rest you merry gentlemen….
Visit APAA Charity shops Dunas do Alvor: Mon-Sat, 10.30am–2pm; Rua Elias Garcia 20, Silves: Mon-Fri 10am–2pm (Sat 1pm). Real bargains. Christmas presents, hand-made jewellery, ornaments. Home-made chutneys, jams, marmalades, pickles and cookies.
Pets:info.apaaportugal@gmail.com (mark for Anita-Legacy) Legacy video: https://youtu.be/hNCdd5X-4XI *
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