How locals and internationals are joining forces to support Madeira’s homeless community — Year 2025
This week, the Madeira Friends Hub was filled with a mix of anticipation, curiosity… and tissues. We hosted the premiere of a short documentary about CASA Madeira (Centro de Apoio ao Sem Abrigo), an association that has been supporting people experiencing homelessness for 17 years.
The seven-minute film, beautifully produced by Michel Freitas of Madeira Production, gave us a backstage pass into CASA’s world , the meals prepared, the food collected, and above all, the human connections built.
Madeira Friends volunteers, CASA Director Silvia Ferreira, friends, locals, internationals, Andreia Collard, Director of Competitiveness, Innovation and Sustainability, and representatives from the Diaspora and Migration Department of Funchal City Council came together to celebrate CASAs work. Some came out of curiosity, others came because they were already part of CASA’s journey. Everyone left with a deeper appreciation for what happens quietly, every day, on our island.
Why Madeira Friends Got Involved
One of our pillars at Madeira Friends is giving back. Over the years we’ve planted trees, cleaned beaches, supported animal shelters, donated blood, and collected toys for children. But when CASA put out a call saying that without more volunteers people would go hungry, we felt it was time to act.
Since then, our community, internationals and locals side by side has:
Who knew volunteering could range from folding shirts to coding software?
Voices of Volunteers
The highlight of the evening wasn’t just the film but hearing from volunteers themselves:
“Volunteering with CASA has been one of the most meaningful things we’ve done in Madeira. We’re grateful to be part of something that directly helps people in need.” — Andy, Germany
“After volunteering in places such as Namibia and Hawaii, we feel fortunate to now contribute here in Madeira through CASA. It is a fantastic organisation doing essential work.” — Chris and Joan Davies, USA
“As a father, I want to be a role model for my daughter, and it’s great to give back to the island. We’ve made wonderful connections through volunteering.” — Zeeshan, Middle East
Integration in Action
For us, this isn’t only about helping CASA. It’s about integration. It’s about showing that internationals who have made Madeira their home can work alongside locals, creating real impact together.
That evening, you could feel it in the room: laughter, tears, applause, curiosity. CASA’s work touched everyone, and Madeira Friends showed how giving back can be joyful, meaningful, and shared.
Watch the Film
If you couldn’t make it to the premiere, don’t worry, you can still watch the documentary!
👉 Find it on our Instagram and on YouTube. Grab a tissue. You might need it.
