dona ajuda in Lisbon

To end the year in style we gathered around 50 members, including our Honorary Chair Ambassador Margriet Leemhuis and Chairman Nuno Pinto de Magalhães, for our special end-of-the-year lunch! It turned out a very pleasant afternoon, with lots of laughter, nice food and company and also an opportunity to discover more about Dona Ajuda and the special catering company we hired, the Mezze/Pão a Pão association, specializing in Middle Eastern cuisine prepared by refugees. 

GUIDED TOUR 

Cristina Velozo and Pedro Folque of Dona Ajuda took us for a tour. The organization embodies the spirit of community and resilience in Lisbon. Established as a non-profit initiative, it operates from the Mercado do Rato, where it transforms donated items into opportunities for those in need. This vibrant space is not just a shop but a hub of compassion, where every item sold contributes to helping over 1,600 families each year.

The mission of Dona Ajuda extends beyond mere commerce; it seeks to create a better world through social, environmental, and cultural initiatives. By promoting the idea that poverty is a temporary situation rather than a permanent state, Dona Ajuda empowers individuals to reclaim their dignity and pursue their dreams.

In addition to providing affordable goods, Dona Ajuda fosters cultural engagement by hosting workshops, art exhibitions, and community events. This approach not only enriches the lives of those who visit but also strengthens the bonds within the community. Through its commitment to sustainability and social justice, Dona Ajuda stands as a beacon of hope, illustrating how collective efforts can lead to meaningful change. 

We were pleased so many of our members dressed for the occasion, by wearing something orange and by contributing to these good causes as we donated 20% of the lunch fees to Dona Ajuda.  

Thank you for all the support we received from you in 2024! Happy Holidays.