VOLUNTEERING IN ERICEIRA: TOP 10

Ricardinha, Fernanda, Luiza, Nelly, Carlos, Cecilia, Regina, Manuel, Benilde, Gracilda, Maria, Laurinda, Agustinha… are some of the names of the elderly residents living at the Lar de Sao Lourenço in Ericeira, whom we have the privilege of accompanying during our stay in Portugal.

In the mornings, guided by Sara, the social worker, we carry out group activities that are much more than just a pastime. She designs them to encourage social interaction, stimulate the mind, keep the body active and, above all, prevent loneliness and isolation, as they promote a vibrant environment. We draw, paint, do crafts and also, with Beatrice, gentle gymnastics. This contributes to the cognitive and physical development of the residents, although some can no longer take care of themselves, so we help feed them, easing the workload of the care assistants who work there.

At the end of the volunteering day, we have lunch at the residence and then enjoy the beaches of Ericeira –where the sea is bluer, as the city’s claim states–. And it is true.

While some take an intensive surfing course, others visit Sintra. We also go to Mafra, where the Royal Palace is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, to Lisbon, the country’s capital, and to Cabo da Roca, the westernmost point of the European continent. As it is a Jubilee Year, we also make a pilgrimage to the Sanctuary of Fátima to obtain the Jubilee and, after placing all our intentions in the hands of the Virgin Mary, we walk to Aljustrel, the village of the three shepherd children. In short, a truly enriching experience combining volunteering with culture and leisure.

One day we prepare garlands with sardines and flags, which decorate the Festival of the Popular Saints held on 25 June with a mass, grilled sardines and dancing. However, we can only attend the mass, as we then leave for the airport.

And we each return home.

Perhaps Ricardinha, Fernanda, Luiza, Nelly, Carlos, Cecilia, Regina, Manuel, Benilde, Gracilda, Maria, Laurinda, Agustinha… will no longer remember us, but we carry them deep in our hearts, because by simply giving us a little of their time, they have helped us grow as people.

Your words moved me. The truth is that it was we who benefited from your presence at Lar de São Lourenço, thanks to your dedication, joy and care in every gesture of kindness.

    The doors will always be open to welcome you. This house is also yours.

    We sincerely hope this experience will be repeated next year”.

 We hope so too. Obrigada!!!*

    *Thank you in Portuguese.