The global shipping and trading community has once again rallied behind hospital vessel charity Mercy Ships’ annual Cargo Day fundraiser.
A fantastic $375,200 was raised in the first couple of days, some 75% ahead of the previous year, with hopes high that many more donations will be received as the event remains live throughout November.
So-called Mercy Cargoes can still be allocated to brokers who contribute 50% of their commission. Likewise, the pledging of donations and address commissions.
Cargo Day since 2016 has raised almost $4 million for Mercy ships which operates the 16,572 gross ton (gt) Africa Mercy and in 2022 enters into field service its newly-built, 37,000-gt Global Mercy.
The charity provides free surgical and medical care to some of the most vulnerable populations in sub-Sahara Africa—children and adults who might otherwise suffer and die from otherwise treatable ailments.
Hundreds of doctors, nurses, dentists, domestic workers and others each year volunteer to work in Africa, paying even for their own board and lodgings while
on the ship.
Meet Apson Akin! After serving as a Mercy Ships crewmember in Benin, he came onboard as a volunteer to bring surgical care and training to nations across Africa. As an IT Specialist, he’s helping us to double the hope and the impact with our newest vessel, the Global Mercy.
The first couple of days of Cargo Day 2021 has seen 19 donations of between $1,000 and $10,000, six of $10,000- $25,000 and three of $25,000.
Today some 25 Mercy Cargoes have been given raising over $378,000 and over $304,175 of pledge amount.
To participate in this year’s fundraising, please see mercyshipscargoday.org and follow the guidance.