Sending Out An S.O.S.

Purchase my Seamen's Scap or Scarf and for an extra $15 I will make and send an extra to either the Newport Docks through the Seamen's Center of Wilmington, Inc. or to the U.S. Navy. Prices and details can be found on my etsy shop, Cotton Ginnie Studio.

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The Seamen's Center of Wilmington Inc.

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The Mission is to respond to statistics that show the quality of life at sea is declining. Now more then ever, services provided by the Seamen's Center of Wilmington are needed. The dedication of the Executive Director and steadily growing corps of volunteers touches the lives of a multitude of seafarers with a commitment to personal, practical and spiritual assistance. Nestled in the heart of the Port of Wilmington complex, the Center offers mariners arriving in the First State a haven from the lonely routine of life aboard a merchant vessel.

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The Spirit of the Center was exemplified in the fall of 1999 when the MN Nora docked at the Port of Wilmington. The undermanned vessel was disabled, had no provisions and crew members had not been paid in many months. Learning of their plight, The Seamen's Center of Wilmington mobilized volunteers and the community to provide vital services for the seafarers.

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Stranded at the Port, the mariners received food, clothing and supplies. Compassion and understanding were extended by the dedicated volunteers of the Center.

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The Heart of the organization is boundless in addition to efforts aimed at nourishing the body and mind, the Seamen's Center of Wilmington endeavors to provide special seasonal, philanthropic and spiritual events. Unique programs, like Christmas At Sea and Sea Sunday, offer opportunities for community groups to also contribute.

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Sometimes, what a seamen needs most is a sympathetic ear to help in stressful situations. The staff and volunteers understand that people the world over must support one another in times of triumph and in times of tragedy. They listen and respond to the needs of these strangers. When necessary, they can call upon an extensive network of seafaring and community agencies for additional support and guidance.

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The Body & Mind of a visiting mariner are rejuvenated by the many amenities available at the Seamens' Center of Wilmington:

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~ Phone cards; private phone booths

~Free Internet access

~Television and movies

~Souvenirs

~Basketball

~Free pre-owned clothing

~International reading material

~Toiletries

~Pool table

~Snacks

~Guitar

~Free transportation

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The Seamen's Center of Wilmington serves approximately 500 ships, representing more then 80 countries, annually. These vessels bring 5,000+ seafarers to the Ports in the State of Delaware:

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~Port of Wilmington

~Delaware City

~Claymont

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The Center's goal is to extend a warm welcome and offer a respite from the loneliness of life at sea.

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Because thousands of lonely seafarers need the Seamen's Center of Wilmington, the Center needs you.

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Volunteer your time

Consider devoting a few hours to helping us. Your contact with the seafarers from all parts of the world will open a new and rewarding world for you.

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Participate in a variety of unique programs

As a part of our Christmas At Sea effort, prepare gift packages for seamen who will be away from loved ones during the holiday season.

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Promote, at your church or the Center, the annual statewide ecumenical religious observance, Sea Sunday. This event prayerfully remembers those who sail the seas.

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Donate needed supplies and gifts

The Center is always in need of a variety of supplies, including playing cards, magazines, coffee, tea, men's clothing, books, videos and cookies.

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Offer your financial support

The Center depends on financial contributions generously donated by individuals, businesses, members of the maritime community, churches and public sources.

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For more information, contact:

Seamen's Center of Wilmington, Inc

PO Box 405

Wilmington, DE 19899

302-575-1300

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Or if you wish to donate through Cotton Ginnie Studio to our boys in the U.S. Navy simply send me a check and e-mail and I will make the donation through my son Ensign Jesse Bird.

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More information about the history of the Seamen's Scap & Scarf can be found on the Cotton Ginnie Studio Shop on etsy.