Joe Duggan (Reporter)
SAN Pedro-based charity Aspandem has been caring for people with mental
disabilities for more than 30 years.
The organisation works alongside Marbella Town Hall and the Ministry of
Health to provide medical attention, guidance and monitoring to disabled
children and adults.
And, over the years, the Baratillo Beneficio Charity Shop on Calle
Marques de Estella has become a favourite haunt for those wishing to
help the charity and rummage for bargains.
The shop’s 40 volunteers sell charity-chic fashion, second-hand books,
bric-a-brac, DVDs and CDs to help fund Aspandem projects.
Retired Swedish teacher Birgit Bloom works in the shop and used to send
sixth form students to help out at Aspandem.
“I have a long history of helping Aspandem. It was an eye-opener for the
students, but it made them feel they were helping out,” said Birgit.
“We get people from all walks of life in the shop and donations from
people who go through their wardrobes.”
