The move comes as the Association was forced to find new retail premises following the impending sale of its leased space in Praia da Luz. For many years the small, but highly popular fashion boutique Encore in Praia da Luz has been a successful contributor to the Madrugada mission. Visitors and locals alike knew they could expect to find well-cared for secondhand fashion at stellar prices. The Association is excited by the prospect that its much larger new fashion store in Lagos will attract even more custom and bring its value offering to a whole new audience.

President of Madrugada, John Hough stated that the move to Lagos comes with a lot of potential benefits. “The new fashion Store will allow for a consolidation of stock deliveries, sorting and storage, along with much more space to display and merchandise the incredible donations we are so fortunate to receive.”

“It has been an exciting and incredibly busy few months. We found the location, engaged with contractors, and completely refurbished the space for our needs in just 12 weeks. I am pleased to announce our grand opening date and to invite both our loyal and new shoppers to come and experience the Madrugada Fashion Store. We are very proud that since 2009 Madrugada has assisted over 425 patients and families with free of charge, palliative care at end of life along with medical equipment; counselling and other services. This new fashion store will go a long way in helping us to fund our completely free services and to assist even more families who wish to avail of our hospice at home care” said Mr Hough.

He added: “Donations of saleable fashion items are welcomed at all Madrugada locations, and are very much needed to fill this larger space. If you are interested in volunteering to work in one of the retail shops, or to get involved in our vital community service, learn more at www.madrugada-portugal,com.”