Algarve bar raises over €1,000 for firefighters

On 13 October, David Larson, owner of The Wandering Fools bar, together with customers, presented the donation to Debby Burton, founder of Associação Alerta de Incêndio Florestal (Alerta), an organisation that supports firefighters and provides information about wildfires in the Algarve and Lower Alentejo.

This is already the second donation made by the bar's customers this year.

In May, they raised more than €550 for the same cause.

Fundraising efforts

The Wandering Fools opened in January on the road leading into Carvoeiro and has since become a popular meeting place for locals and visitors.

Customers have been able to contribute to the fundraising effort since the bar opened, with a large part of the money collected during its Tuesday evening quiz nights.

The donations will help Alerta continue its work supporting local firefighters, particularly during the fire season, when fire stations can run short of essential supplies.

These include food and drinks that firefighters can easily carry while working, medical supplies and even dry socks. Alerta's volunteers help make sure firefighters have access to these items when they need them.

Protective equipment

When enough funds are available, the association also helps with larger purchases.

In the past, these have included replacement uniforms for firefighters whose clothing was damaged while on duty, protective equipment during the Covid-19 pandemic and a defibrillator.

Alongside its fundraising and practical support, Alerta also plays an important role in keeping local communities informed about wildfires.

Its Facebook group, managed by volunteers, shares updates about ongoing fires and provides a space where residents can exchange information and help one another, particularly during the summer months.

The fundraising efforts in Carvoeiro are not stopping here. On Sunday, 6 December, The Wandering Fools will join forces with Alerta to organise The Great Carvoeiro Chilli Cook-Off.

For a €5 donation, visitors will be able to taste the chilli dishes and help judge the competition, while supporting the association's work.

More information about Alerta and its activities is available on its website, algarvefire.info, and its Facebook group, where wildfire updates are also shared.

Details about The Wandering Fools and its upcoming events can be found on the bar's Facebook page.