“We are always looking for new blood.” Jenny their President, smiles. “We can never have enough kind hearts to volunteer. Of course, some say it is ‘tempting’, to join a new club or association. What is a shame is that we don’t ask for much in the way of volunteer work.

When we lost our ‘help-line’ manager, Zélia Santos, she left a huge hole. She was our cat-colony, lady. Trapping and helping with their replacement into feral cat colonies. And, of course, our own cat-woman! In every way.” Luck they say is a ‘lady’. So when Wanda turned up, it was a timely heaven-sent gift. “Wanda is Portuguese and speaks English and French. Her main work with Salgados/Guia cat colonies and general animal kingdom aid is of course of huge help. “Now Wanda is helping manage the ‘Help-Line’ so we are covered.” Recovering from a recent illness she is now able to take a back seat with animal work and give APAA a real helping hand. “The time we all need to take stock, as they say, with a very successful season behind us, we are now looking to an equally successful 2025.”


Jenny’s van is full. But APAA still needs lots of tempting goodies to stock up their Alvor and Silves charity shops. “Not forgetting the car-boot sales and ‘Pop-Up’ Shops. Anita is busy planning what and where to put unwanted good items on sale.” Volunteers are always welcome at their shops give the existing staff a break, and help sort out the stock. “We could do with help on pick-ups from our Supermarkets, who donate food-stuffs for our furry friends. Someone may just be on their front doorstep at the right time.” OK. Any takers? “There are more daunting tasks looming ahead, we need more Trappers and Nappers. Able-bodied cat people to help TNR. Trap, Neuter and Return. We’re willing to give people starter lessons!” Jenny laughs. “Gloves are a must, but not included.” Becoming a member is not difficult contact them by email and fill in a form. Tempted? Done!

Stickits! ‘Pop-Up’ Shop ‘O Tasco’ Monday 10th March 12-3pm. Household goods, ornaments, jewellery, books. Pet corner. Chicken Piri-piri day Book direct 282471769. Goodies at Mini-Pop-Up with Paul & Pasi’s ‘Pop-In’ their Special Well-Being Treatment Charity Day. Saturday 22nd March 11am-4pm. Portimão. Selection of Treatments 5€ each! Booking essential (+351) 910 665 601. Ferragudo Car-boot sales every 2nd Sunday of the month 8-12. Weather permitting! Support Emporium Charities Group Auctions ‘Facebook’ 22/02-01/03 and 22/03-29/03. Convento’bio Lagoa during April. Lining up some more ‘Pop-Up’ Shops, Entertainment and Events.

Charity Auctions: https://www.facebook.com/groups/594035701307971

Contact: info.apaaportugal@gmail.com

Get on Jackie’s Special Lunches List: events.apaaportugal@gmail.com