APAA’s white van has become synonymous with the pickups and deliveries on behalf of the Association for Protection of Animals Algarve, notoriously driven by its president Jenny Clarke. “I am amazed at how much mileage this dear girl has put in!” The van. “It’s always a joke, white van man… But hey, we need a good workhorse!”
Jenny and her team have had a busy 2026, and is continuing to be a busy one, keeping members of all kinds happy. “Well, we do try!” Not only luncheon events at Jackie’s country cottage, but buffet events and ‘Pop-Up’ shops at places where a good plate of food can be eaten whilst on the prowl.
“A lot of our members have regular turnouts of attics and garages. We pick up when we can and deliver to our two charity shops.” Larger articles are either put up for sale or auctioned within the membership.
“Our motto is ‘Here to Help’ and we try and maintain the philosophy behind it, whether it is a helping hand, or financially.” Most of the funds raised by the charity is for their Spaying & Neutering Programme (SNiP), or for abandoned dogs. Whether the funds go to the feral cat colonies or to the rescue of four-pawed friends, it is eagerly received as it is so quickly swallowed up!
Their helping hand also ensures fellow charities and shelters are given support when needed. “No man is an island. Especially these days.” Agreed. Always on the lookout for new ideas or help when needed.
APAA has a small but friendly team, trying their hardest to make sure the association ticks over the best it can.
“With the Christmas period ahead, and although it seems far away, we encourage people to look at charity shops to buy and recycle the goods on offer. Some are designer, brand new bargains! Others ‘pre-loved’, as they say!”
APAA charity shops
Check out the new-look APAA charity shop at Dunas de Alvor: Mon-Sat, 10.30am–2pm
Rua Elias Garcia 20, Silves: Mon-Fri, 10am–2pm (Sat 1pm)
Real bargains. Never too early for Christmas presents. You will find handmade jewellery, ornaments, homemade chutneys, jams, marmalades, pickles and cookies. Everything you need for your home or rental. Spoil yourself! Good quality unwanted gifts welcomed.
APAA Diary
- Monday, October 26: O Tasco ‘Pop-Up’ (chicken piri-piri day!), in Senhora do Verde, near Portimão. Always a favourite for the locals and members alike.
- Friday, November 6: Convent’Bio, Lagoa. A variety of stalls and a chance for pre-Christmas shopping.
- Sunday, November 8: Ferragudo Car Boot Sale. Sorry, no preserves or cookies.
- Friday, December 11: Joint APAA Christmas Charity Ball & Dinner, in conjunction with the Silves Rotary Club. Email [email protected] to book your place.
- Jackie’s lunches & events: [email protected]
- Pets: [email protected] (mark for Anita Legacy)
- Check out Facebook: APAA Portugal and charity auctions
