This year, the traditional Christmas charity hampers will reach 250 households in São Brás de Alportel. Families will receive food, hygiene products, toys and books, bringing dignity, warmth and hope during the festive season.
The council says: “The initiative aims to ensure a dignified and happy Christmas for everyone, with food and peace at the table. Each year, hundreds of families benefit from this support, which forms part of the year-round social intervention work carried out with socially and economically vulnerable households.”
In total, 154 gift bags are being distributed to families, with presents for children, alongside 224 food hampers.
The Christmas Solidarity Hamper is a joint initiative promoted by the Municipality and the Parish Council of São Brás de Alportel, the coordinating bodies of the Local Food Aid Platform. The platform operates from the Social Shop of São Brás de Alportel and counts on the collaboration of its partners, including the local Cáritas centre, the Salvation Army, the CCD – Culture and Sports Centre for Municipal and Parish Council Workers, Santa Casa da Misericórdia de São Brás de Alportel, and the commitment of the São Brás de Alportel Martial Arts Club.
This initiative forms part of the annual “Solidarity Christmas” programme. Alongside food and essential goods, families also receive gifts for children through the “Christmas Stars” project. The aim is to support parents who face financial hardship, helping them provide meaningful Christmas moments for their children.
Gifts are selected discreetly, taking into account the age and preferences of each child, ensuring a special surprise on Christmas Eve or Christmas morning.
The initiative is supported by Porto Editora and the “Estrelinhas de Natal” (Christmas Stars) project, made possible through the dedicated work of the local branch of the Salvation Army and the generosity of several social welfare organisations across the Algarve.
The local authority has expressed its gratitude to the local businesses that have supported this initiative consistently over the years.
