“We’re heavily committed now into raising money for SNiP (Spaying & Neutering Campaign)” – Jenny Clarke
Jenny Clarke, the president of the Association for Protection of Animals Algarve, has APAA’s sights fixed on a successful 2025.
Her mind-boggling year has been super-charged with never-ending lists and things to do. “Sometimes, I wonder where the week has gone. Days can roll into one.”
Apart from driving the iconic white APAA cat-ambulance-cum-van, Jenny’s jobs include the day-to-day running of the small but busy team. “We’re heavily committed now into raising money for SNiP (Spaying & Neutering Campaign) through ‘Pop-Up’ events and by whatever means we can.” She grins. “Not all car boot sales, for instance, run smoothly and on the day. We often get rained off or road works intervene.”
Luckily, their innovative ‘Pop-Up’ shops have taken off like wildfire over the last few years. “We are building up a lot of followers and it is surprising how one person’s forgotten trinket or ornament is another’s crock of gold.”
Their two shops in Silves and Alvor have been even more popular, especially with the tourists looking for extra pazazz on the beach or at the local disco. “The kids are, hopefully, going to try and contribute with their shrug-offs for the season and we can create a ‘Kid’s Korner’. We’ll see!” Indeed. With one hand stirring the chutneys, jams and pickles and the other collecting burst bags of food or litter for the cat colonies, she has to thank wholeheartedly Team APAA.
“Some of our helpers wish to remain anonymous. They just enjoy doing what they do. The gals in the shops for instance. We cannot thank them enough keeping stocks topped up and shops as clean. Volunteers are always welcome. They can enjoy a chat and meet and greet for a social morning.” Not all grind then.
“Jackie, our treasurer, always working to keep the cheques and balances healthy. Where would we be without her scrumptious cookies? Private luncheon events for members are forever popular. Just contact us to be added to the infamous list!” Great.
“Anita, our ‘Pop-Up’ Shop Manager, has brought a sparkle to the tables, always managing to steadily sell at the stall. Raising money is her main object of the day.
“Not forgetting APAA’s intrepid cat-colony woman, Zélia Santos, her spaying and neutering topping the 200-mark in 2024 alone (Editor’s note: This article was written before Zélia’s passing just before Christmas. A tribute to Zélia from APAA will be published soon); Carlos Filipe, photographer and author, abandoned animals’ activist; along with Animal Rescue Algarve’s (ARA) amazing work; Gail Skinner, ‘awesome’ dog trainer and behaviourist; Pet Park’s Gary and Wendy.
“Most importantly is to thank all the wonderful people, those members and followers who have supported us. Not only last year but for a long time. Donating time and money to our worthwhile cause.”
Happy 2025!
APAA: info.apaaportugal@gmail.com
ARA: info@animalrescuealgarve.com
Gail: keyawesomedogs@gmail.com
Carlos Filipe: info@cfilipe.pt
Pet Park: ghulme23@yahoo.co.uk
By APAA
