AGAPE – Universal and unconditional Love

New Charity Launches in Portimão and Lagoa to Support the Rising Homeless Population in the Algarve

Credits: Supplied Image; Author: Client;

A new non-profit organisation, AGAPE Homeless, has officially launched in the Algarve with a mission to provide practical support, compassion, and hope to the growing number of people facing homelessness in the region.

The Algarve is one of Europe’s premier tourist destinations, with hotels, golf courses, and hospitality businesses bringing prosperity to the area. Yet behind the scenes, tourism has also driven up the cost of living for many local Portuguese residents, while vulnerable individuals who have found themselves stranded in the Algarve—without stable housing or support—add to the challenge. The result is a visible and growing homeless population in towns such as Portimão.

“Becoming homeless is often a very rapid transition,” says Sally Ward, founder of AGAPE Homeless. “It can happen to anyone; a sudden job loss, a medical emergency, or the breakdown of family support. A series of unpredictable events can leave people without shelter in a matter of weeks.”

Launch of Weekly Food Outreach

As the summer tourist season ends and seasonal work dries up, AGAPE Homeless plans to launch a weekly food outreach program in Portimão. This service will provide consistent meals to those in need.

“To start and commit to this initiative every week, we urgently need to raise €1,000 per month,” explains Ward. “Time is short, and once we begin, people will rely on this support. We are appealing to local businesses and individuals to help us launch and sustain this vital service.”

A Call to the Business and Local Community

AGAPE Homeless highlights several ways the community can make an immediate impact:

• Financial donations – all eligible for tax deductions under Portuguese law.

• Landlords – offering low-cost accommodation, with AGAPE supporting the placement and management of suitable tenants.

• Employers – providing job opportunities, with AGAPE helping to match candidates who are ready to re-enter the workforce.

As the organisation grows, AGAPE Homeless expects to open opportunities for volunteering and other in-kind support. For now, the focus is on building the financial foundation to launch and sustain the food outreach program.

“Supporting AGAPE Homeless is a way for local businesses and residents to show leadership, compassion, and responsibility,” adds Ward. “Together, we can bring hope and dignity to those living on the streets and ensure the Algarve remains not only a world-class destination for visitors, but also a caring and sustainable home for those who live here year-round.”