Mallorca charity shop donates an incredible €46,500 to cancer organisations

The power of community spirit was on full display in Mallorca as the Calanova Cancer Shop handed over an incredible €46,500 to cancer charities during a special presentation event celebrating the work of volunteers, donors and supporters.

Held at 3pm on Saturday, June 27, the gathering brought together around 40 guests, including charity presidents, volunteers and local dignitaries, to witness the presentation of donation cheques that will directly support people affected by cancer across the Balearic Islands.

The largest donations saw €20,000 each awarded to the AECC (Spanish Association Against Cancer in the Balearic Islands) and ASPANOB (Association of Parents of Children with Cancer in the Balearic Islands).

Both organisations provide vital support for families facing cancer, from helping parents stay close to children receiving hospital treatment to providing emotional support, specialist care and educational assistance for young patients. They also offer psychological support and practical help for adults navigating a cancer diagnosis.

Supporting every stage of the journey

A further €3,000 was donated to the Cancer Support Group, which provides invaluable assistance to English-speaking and international residents living with cancer in Mallorca, helping them understand treatment, navigate the healthcare system and cope with the challenges of facing serious illness in a foreign country.

Another €3,000 went to DIME (Dime… Tell Me), a palliative care charity dedicated to visiting and supporting people nearing the end of their lives, ensuring no one faces their final journey alone.

A surprising discovery becomes a gift for children

One of the day’s most touching moments centred on an unexpected donation worth €500.

While volunteers were sorting donated items a few weeks earlier, they came across an unusual wooden plaque bearing references to a Masonic Lodge and the year 1929. Unsure of its significance, they passed it to local Freemason Steve.

What happened next surprised everyone.

Recognising its historical value, Steve arranged for the piece to be auctioned through his Masonic Lodge, where it attracted keen interest. The auction raised €500, which was then donated specifically to ASPANOB to support children with cancer.

Organisers described the gesture as turning “history into hope”, with the proceeds helping children and families facing some of life’s toughest challenges.

Volunteers at the heart of the success

Guests also enjoyed a beautifully prepared buffet created by Maxine Mia and Jan Wood, while reflecting on another successful year of fundraising.

The event highlighted the remarkable impact of the Calanova Cancer Shop, whose success depends entirely on donated goods, loyal customers and a dedicated team of volunteers.

Organisers thanked everyone who has contributed to the shop’s continued success, whether by donating unwanted items, shopping for bargains or giving up their time to keep the charity running.

As they reminded supporters: “One person’s junk is another person’s treasure.”

That simple philosophy has once again been transformed into something far more valuable… funding that will provide comfort, practical help and hope for hundreds of people affected by cancer throughout Mallorca.