Hi I’m Erik Jens and I have organized a fundraiser for a very special community in Northern Portugal, Casteloés-Falorca, near Viseu. It’s a vibrant and close-knit village, though like many rural areas, it has an aging population. Thank you!

A few years ago, we bought a quinta here and gradually became part of the local community by listening, learning, and contributing wherever we could. Once our house is complete, we plan to open a small café and wine bar in the adega featuring local products such as honey and olive oil. It’s not a commercial venture, but rather a way to give back and help keep the community thriving.

At the heart of our village lies a beautiful hilltop church, the Santuário Imaculado Coração de Maria. It’s truly a sanctuary, attracting visitors for its serenity and views. Unfortunately, both the church and its surroundings are in need of some care. The windows, for example, must be repaired to prevent water damage, and the nearby picnic and BBQ area could use improvements to make it safe and welcoming.

This little church plays a big role in bringing people together. Once a year, there’s a wonderful fundraising party with dancing, but the proceeds only cover basic maintenance. With this new fundraiser, we hope to go a step further, tackling important restoration work like the window repairs and ensuring the sanctuary remains a cherished place for everyone.