With winter fast approaching, the Help the Homeless Winter Campaign has started its efforts to supply sleeping bags and basic items to those experiencing homelessness across the Algarve.
Over the past two years, the Help the Homeless campaign has delivered 1,325 sleeping bags across the Algarve, supplying frontline associations, community groups and volunteers who support people living without stable housing. This year, campaign organiser Eve Clifton has partnered with the registered non-profit AGAPE Homeless, which focuses on providing practical support, compassionate care and human connection to people experiencing homelessness in the Portimão and Lagoa areas.
“Our goal is to meet urgent needs while also connecting people with long-term solutions. However, when approached to get involved with the ‘Help the Homeless Winter Campaign’, we knew that it was a fantastic opportunity to connect with likeminded organisations and expand our support to those experiencing homelessness across the whole of the Algarve,” said Sally Ward, founder of AGAPE Homeless.
“Winter has arrived across the Algarve with temperatures plummeting, the winds and rain brought with Storm Claudia are still fresh in our memories, added to which there are warnings that December will have further thunderstorms to come. It is already incredibly challenging for those who are homeless without these extreme weather conditions, whether sleeping on the streets, in abandoned buildings, tents or makeshift shelters,” added campaign organiser Eve Clifton.
Official figures show more than 800 registered homeless people in the region, though the real number is believed to be much higher.
This winter’s goal is to collect 500 sleeping bags. Once the target is met, the campaign will focus on other essential items, including trainers (especially size 43), gloves, hygiene products and underwear – simple but crucial supplies that make day-to-day life safer and more bearable.
How to donate
Cash donations can be made to AGAPE’s bank account and should include the reference “2025 WINTER CAMPAIGN” so that 100% of funds go directly to this initiative.
- Account Holder: AGAPE ASSOCIACAO DE GENEROSIDADE E APOI
IBAN: PT50 0018 0003 6513 7002 020 26
BIC/SWIFT: TOTAPTPL
Bank: Banco Santander Totta S.A.
Anyone wishing to donate items such as sleeping bags, tents, or good-quality men’s winter clothing, such as tracksuit bottoms, hoodies, fleeces, sweatshirts, thick socks, underwear, waterproof coats, or trainers, can email eacalgarve@gmail.com or info@agapehomeless.org.
