Shipping plays a vital role in world trade and is the backbone of the world economy, whilst this said seafarers are often overlooked. The risks they face, the sacrifices they make daily, deserve the respect and acknowledgement by showing our appreciation.

To help celebrate World Maritime Day this year, we’ve been working closely with our charity partner Mission to Seafarers (MTS) to understand what items are high on the Seafarers’ gift lists and basketballs it was! This will encourage seafarers to engage with one another and help promote fitness, both of which are important for mental wellbeing.

Last week we distributed basketballs to our MTS Singapore contact, Port Chaplain, Mr Toh Soon Kok. We’re also in the process of shipping out basketballs our Kobe team to deliver these items to Mr Paul, the Chaplin in Kobe and another shipment is going out to our Welsh Chaplain, Mark Lawson-Jones. This will help reach a variety of seafarers across the world and further demonstrate our commitment in supporting MTS.

A quick recap: What does MTS do?

MTS serves merchant crews around the world providing practical, emotional and spiritual support through ship visits, drop-in seafarers centres and a range of welfare and emergency support services.