Caring for the Seafarers in Sydney with compassion during COVID-19

The Mission To Seafarers Sydney brings relief, comfort, support, gift packs, and pastoral care to Seafarers from around the world staying at Port Botany and Glebe Island.

Due to the COVID-19 lockdown, no Seafarers could leave their ships to go onshore. This created immense physical and mental health issues for Seafarers trapped onboard. Many of them were suffering from symptoms of depression & anxiety, feelings of loneliness, homesickness, with some left feeling suicidal.

We organised well-being gift packs and distributed them to the vessel's gangway in Port Botany to lift the Seafarer's spirits. We have distributed 1000+ packs and continue to distribute when we continue to receive donations from our generous donors. The mental wellness packs included basic Toiletries & Hygiene items such as; Cleaning Spray, Sanitiser, Alcohol Wipes, Toothpaste, Shower Gel, Sunscreen, and Anti-stress Supplements.

The response from the Seafarers after receiving these donations was so overwhelming. Many notes of "Thanks" were received saying how they felt loved, remembered, and cared for during the lockdown. All recipients were appreciative & say a big "Thank You" to our Mission and, of course, to all our donors for their generosity, especially Good360 and Kogan, Colgate, Edgewell, Bod Australia, and Koh. Thank You for your generous donations at such a time like this. Keep up the good work, and Thanks for your partnership in caring for Seafarers in Sydney with compassion!