The Rotary Clubs of Estoi and Olhão, in association with the Alliance Française, organised a fundraising fun night in June dedicated to fellowship and the colour white in the historic and iconic Municipal Museum of Faro.
Formerly a 16th century convent, the outdoor location was chosen by the organisers for the event which aimed to raise funds for the purchase of a new, up-to-date mobile breast screening unit for the Algarve.
The dress code for the evening was white, including clothing, accessories and table decorations. Guests provided their own food and drinks, and even decorated their own tables, ensuring that all the income went to the Algarve Oncology Association (AOA).
Entertainment included a performance of flamenco dancing and a talented Portuguese guitarist, as well as a raffle draw.
Mayor of Faro Rogério Bacalhau welcomed the guests and thanked them for supporting the cause, with organisers later announcing that €5,200 was raised.
The AOA manages the only mobile breast screening unit covering the Algarve and Lower Alentejo. With the existing equipment, the association currently holds screenings for women aged between 50 and 69 every two or three years.
Rotary clubs and other charities in the Algarve are now trying to raise a total of €430,000, of which €125,000 needs to be raised locally, to allow the AOA to acquire a second mobile unit. The frequency of screenings could then be increased to two years and the screening age lowered to 45, thus improving the chances of early detection of breast cancer.
“Thanks to the generosity of those attending the Dinner in White and many other fundraising events the local funding target is now within sight,” said the organisers.
Photo: The Dinner in White event was held at the Municipal Museum of Faro
