As sayings go, it is a very true one! Often, that wonderful gift, lovingly presented, wrapped and topped with a bow, is not what was exactly expected or wanted. Gushing thanks of ‘just what I wanted!’ or ‘heavens, how did you know?’, it is then tossed into the attic, guest room or garage. Charity shops are reliant on such unwanted fodder. Stuff no longer fit for purpose? ‘Hang on! That’s brand new!’
The Association for Protection of Animals Algarve (APAA) has two charity shops – one in Alvor and the other in Silves. Both have different styles to suit the community they serve. Sun-and-sand Alvor compared to scenic, inland Silves.
Both APAA premises are looked after by the staff and members who give a helping hand from time to time. Anita Wight, normally associated with the Pop-Up shops and ‘Legacy Pet Plan’, visited Alvor to see what goodies were available for the coming season. She and the ladies, accompanied by Jenny (APAA president), busily sorting wood from the chaff. “There are some wonderful gems lingering amongst the necessities of life.”
Jenny and Anita have loaded their vehicles in anticipation of the up-and-coming ‘Pop-Up’ shops. “Some of the items ideal for families will go directly to the human charities.”
APAA’s shops are very popular for that quick summer outfit for the boardwalk or disco. Perhaps something for the new apartment, house or guestroom: dining service sets, cutlery, plates, glasses, tableware, bedding, rugs, wonderful handcrafted ornaments, some collectors’ pieces and even designer labels.
“But one cannot help noticing handmade jewellery … that trinket you cannot resist!” Anita has her eye on the dangling sapphire and diamond-glittering earrings. “Mine!” Her eyes light up.
Not forgetting the edibles, of course: Jenny’s handmade jams, preserves, marmalades and pickles; and Jackie’s scrumptious cookies.
All proceeds are in aid of SNiP, APAA’s Spaying and Neutering Programme. The sterilisation of animals is vital, especially the feral cat colonies. “They are on the increase, unfortunately!” Jenny has a regular run in her white van collecting cats, transporting them to the vets and back to the colonies. “Almost a full-time job!”
APAA’s motto – Here to Help
APAA also collects damaged pet food bags donated by supermarkets for other small shelters and associations who need the extra pet food. Feral cats still need feeding – it is the one thing that keeps them together in a colony. Any help you can offer, no matter how small, is gratefully received. Helping those who help you.
APAA charity shops – Bring, browse and buy!
- Alvor: Dunas de Alvor: Mon-Sat, 10.30am-2pm
- Silves: Rua Elias Garcia 20, Mon-Fri, 10am-2pm (Sat 1pm)
If you need help with transporting items to either of the shops, please contact Jenny.
- Contacts and Jackie’s lunches: events.apaaportugal@gmail.com
- Pets: info.apaaportugal@gmail.com (mark for Anita-Legacy)
- Legacy video
- Always check out APAA’s Facebook!
