At VegaVriend, you can collect reward points with every order. Eventually, you can redeem these points for a donation to three causes we’ve selected. You can read how it works here.

We’d like to highlight our chosen causes in a blog post. In this post, we’ll tell you more about Pippi. Read on!

Behind the paradise-like beaches of Curaçao lies a hidden reality of animal suffering: neglected dogs, stray cats, and wandering donkeys and horses. In 2012, Tamara Nuijten founded Pippi’s Opvang—a safe haven for abused, injured, and abandoned animals. What started as volunteer work has grown into a full-time rescue center on her farm. Here, animals receive loving care, medical treatment, and a permanent home. From dogs and cats to horses, chickens, and even turtles—every animal is given a second chance. Pippi’s Opvang is a place of healing, peace, and hope—made possible by the dedication of many and the support of generous donors.

Pippi’s Opvang’s mission is to give abused, neglected, and abandoned animals in Curaçao a second chance in a safe and loving environment. They strive for a world free of animal suffering, where respect and compassion are at the heart of everything. Through education, care, and promoting a vegan lifestyle, they aim to raise awareness and help create a kinder, more animal-friendly society—step by step, paw by paw.

Pippi’s Opvang was founded by Tamara, who runs the shelter in Curaçao. Marga takes care of the administration, while Roos and her family support from the Netherlands by helping with transport and providing temporary shelter for dogs. In addition, a dedicated team of volunteers regularly travels to Curaçao to support the animals and the shelter.

“The story that touched us the most is that of Bowie. As a puppy, he suffered severe nerve damage, which left his back legs deformed. The vet advised euthanasia, but Tamara chose life and love: “If I regret it later, so be it—Bowie is my son.”

He was bottle-fed, wore special diapers, and later even got a custom-made wheelchair. His determination was incredible. Bowie grew into a happy, energetic dog and became the face of our shelter.

He taught us that a disability doesn’t have to be a limitation to a beautiful life—as long as there is love, care, and the right support. His story touched many hearts and showed what’s possible when you don’t give up.”

“Thanks to your support through VegaVriend, we’re able to purchase food for the dogs and cats in our shelter. This allows us to provide our animals with healthy, plant-based meals—while together contributing to a more compassionate, animal-friendly world 💚”

In addition to donating (reward points), there are other ways you can support Pippi’s Opvang.

You can help by following them and sharing their stories on social media. More awareness means more help! You can also collect items, send them over, or volunteer as a “pet parent from afar.” You’ll receive a sweet update every week!

Want more information on how you can help? Click here!