Sharing the Christmas Spirit
 Updated: 4 July 2008

Seafarers are one of our "Lifelines". They bring to the Lakehead goods we need and improve our economy by taking away goods being exported to foreign countries. Seafarers on ocean-going ships are away from home for nine months to a year. They do not get home for Christmas and may not even be in a port.

One way to express our appreciation to these dedicated individuals is by sharing a little of our Christmas Spirit with them through the tradition of gift giving. This may help to make it a little less lonely for them. Due to the generosity of many Friends of the Mission to Seafarers, approximately 50 gift bags are distributed to seafarers visiting the Seafarers Centre or taken to the last ships in port.

Once again we are appealing to you for donations so that this outreach program can be continued.

Suggested items you might choose to donate are:

·         mittens/gloves;

·         hat/toque;

·         socks;

·         scarf;

·         writing/note paper, envelopes, pen, or pencil;

·         small tool: flashlight, screwdriver; 

·         shaving supplies (other toiletries are not needed);

·         playing cards,  hand-held games/puzzles;

·         small unbreakable Christmas ornament; or

·         wrapped candy or gum.

 Money donations also accepted that will be used to purchase items for the gift bag.

Donations may be given to your parish representative or brought to the Seafarer's Centre (Keefer Intermodal, 100 Main St.) no later than the last Monday in November. A Christmas tree will be set-up at the Centre and gift bags placed under it in readiness for distribution to seafarers visiting the Seafarers Centre during December. 

Your contributions will be gratefully accepted. For additional information contact the Seafarers’ Centre 344-8241.

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