Larnaca, Cyprus. A community initiative in Cyprus is using craft-focused events to raise awareness and funds for stray cats while bringing together residents, craft enthusiasts and animal lovers.
New initiative links creative events with animal welfare
The initiative, Paint With Friends (PWF), was founded by Verena Peterka to support Cyprus’ stray cats through creative gatherings. Peterka said the situation for stray cats on the island can be described as “heartbreaking.”
She cited an estimate that around 80,000 cats live in the Larnaca area alone, with many not neutered. Peterka said stories of hit-and-run incidents, poisoning, dumping and abuse involving stray cats appear regularly.
Founder’s experience and move to Cyprus
Peterka said cats were a key reason she was drawn to Cyprus. During a 2024 trip, she met two kittens and later returned to Cyprus to bring them to Germany, describing the experience as the beginning of her involvement.
She relocated to Cyprus in summer 2025 with three cats, which she said soon became five. Shortly after moving, she founded Paint With Friends to encourage more people to get involved through creative activities.
Community focus and event formats
Peterka said the project also aims to help people meet others, noting that internationals who move to Cyprus often report difficulties building friendships. She said the idea behind PWF is to bring people together while helping street cats through shared activities.
Fundraising events have included painting vases by the sea, decorating candles and glasses, and creating vision boards. The events initially operated as a women-only space before opening up as the initiative developed.
How do you think community events can most effectively support stray animal welfare in Cyprus?
