Merchant sailors not able to leave their ships...1.5 million of them around theworld. The call out on 774ABC to knit beanies for them caught my attention.
A series of phone calls then resulted in a collaboration between Rotary Club
Melbourne South Rotary Donations in Kind and Stellamaris Mission in providing
Care Packs to the 200 ship crew who arrive in our port each day. None can dis-
embark and all are lonely. In fact suicide rates have doubled since the corona-
virus pandemic. Already the incidence of suicide in merchant seamen was much
embark and all are lonely. In fact suicide rates have doubled since the corona-
virus pandemic. Already the incidence of suicide in merchant seamen was much
higher than the average population so this is very alarming.
Knitters were mobilized for beanies.
Donations in Kind provided a whole truck load of warm jackets, caps, and other
goodies.
Quin Scalzo (RC Melbourne) donated 18 boxes of delicious treats.
Toothpaste, toothbrushes and toiletry items have been generously donated by
Alan Samuel (RC Glen Eira and Impact)
Stella Marris continue the care packs and are anticipating this will be required
for at least 12 months. Donations are required ongoing of mens clothing and
hygiene pack items. They can be dropped off at Stellamaris Mission https://
www.stellamaris.org.au/
Bronwyn Stephens
Knitters were mobilized for beanies.
Donations in Kind provided a whole truck load of warm jackets, caps, and other
goodies.
Quin Scalzo (RC Melbourne) donated 18 boxes of delicious treats.
Toothpaste, toothbrushes and toiletry items have been generously donated by
Alan Samuel (RC Glen Eira and Impact)
Stella Marris continue the care packs and are anticipating this will be required
for at least 12 months. Donations are required ongoing of mens clothing and
hygiene pack items. They can be dropped off at Stellamaris Mission https://
www.stellamaris.org.au/
Bronwyn Stephens
RC Melbourne South
