WITH A last minute green light to use the grounds next to the Zoo Biológico in Silves, fundraisers for Castelo dos Sonhos (Castle of Dreams) will go ahead with the now annual Picnic in the Park on Saturday, September 10, from 6.30pm.
First held at the end of August 2003 in Alcantarilha, the event proved to be such a success that it was repeated in 2004. This year, it was decided to move closer to Silves, where the heart of the charity lies, and permission was granted to use the grounds next to the zoo.
Castelo dos Sonhos is a charity that helps people over a wide radius, well beyond its immediate area of Silves, and this year so far has helped furnish more than 1,400 homes with donated furniture. Help has been given by way of food and clothing to many victims of the fires in the Alentejo and constant support is available to anyone who is suffering, from the elderly to single mothers or the unemployed.
This year, tables and chairs are being provided, although to be sure of comfort, you can always bring your own. Parking is easy and close by, and three big grills will be alight for you to use if you want to grill your own meat and fish. There is little risk of fire, as this whole area has been burned out by fires over the last two years. Still, a few brave patches of green are struggling through, so come and admire them.
Sardines, salad and bread are included in the entrance fee of 10 euros for adults and five euros for children of school age. Several entertainers have been lined up to keep the party going and if you would like to be part of them, then get in touch.
Help the Castelo dos Sonhos help others. Just to let organisers know how many to expect, contact Jenny on 282 381 201 or 963 518 184.
