Join Liverpool Seafarers Centre Christmas Appeal 2026!
Liverpool Seafarers Centre (LSC) is launching its annual appeal to local businesses, maritime partners, faith groups, and the wider community for support with its 2026 Christmas Parcel Appeal. This vital initiative aims to spread festive cheer and offer a warm moment of comfort to the thousands of seafarers visiting the Port of Liverpool and Manchester Ship Canal during the Christmas period.
The Unsung Heroes of Global Trade Deserve Our Support
Liverpool, one of the world's great maritime cities, is a crucial hub for global trade—bringing in the essential goods, energy, commodities, and Christmas gifts we rely on every day. The dedicated seafarers who navigate international waters to deliver these goods are the unsung heroes of our global economy.
Yet, their demanding jobs mean months away from family and loved ones, leading to significant isolation and loneliness—especially during Christmas, a time traditionally dedicated to home, family, and togetherness.
This annual appeal is our community's chance to extend famous Merseyside hospitality to those working tirelessly at sea, reminding them that they are valued, cared for, and not forgotten.
Prioritising Health, Comfort, and Well-Being at Christmas
John Wilson, Chief Executive of Liverpool Seafarers Centre, stresses the crucial link between this appeal, physical comfort, and mental well-being for visiting crews.
“The long weeks at sea, harsh winter weather, and extended periods away from home take a serious toll on a mariner's physical and mental health,” John explains. “By providing a friendly face on board, a warm welcome at our Crosby Road South centre, and a practical Christmas gift bag, we offer a tangible lifeline of comfort during this special time of year. It’s far more than just a gift—it’s a message that Liverpool cares.”
John is calling on all Merseyside businesses, community groups, and individuals to uphold our reputation as the friendliest port in the world.
“Your support allows us to give these seafarers a true sense of belonging when they feel most isolated,” he added. “Let’s work together to show that Liverpool stands by its values of kindness and community, and help us beat last year’s total of distributed gift parcels!”
How You Can Help: Toiletries & Confectionery Focus
This year, we are placing a special emphasis on providing practical personal care items, alongside festive treats to bring a sweet taste of home to the mess room.
We are appealing for donations of the following new, unopened items for both men and women:
🧴 Essential Toiletries (High Priority)
Moisturiser & Hand Cream (Essential for protecting skin against harsh sea winds and saltwater air)
Lip balm & Cold-weather skin protection
Shower gels & Body washes
Shampoo & Conditioner
Deodorants & Anti-perspirants
Toothbrushes, Toothpaste & Dental hygiene supplies
Period supplies
Shaving foam & Disposable razors
Small bar soaps & Travel-size wash bags
🍫 Confectionery & Festive Treats
Boxes or bags of chocolates & Individually wrapped sweets
Small chocolate bars & Biscuit packs
Festive treats & Selection packs
Chewing gum & Mints
🧦 Stocking Fillers
We also welcome supplies of stocking filler itmes including socks, gloves, playing cards, notepbooks, pens, and branded merchandise, tourist items such as keyrings
💳 Monetary Donations & Corporate Sponsorship
Monetary donations are also hugely appreciated, allowing our team to bulk-purchase missing items and ensure every visiting seafarer receives a gift.
Volunteer With Us!
You can also make an incredible difference by volunteering your time to help our team with sorting, packing, and preparing the gift bags at our centre ahead of ship visits across the berths.
Contact & Donation Information
Items can be dropped off or posted directly to our headquarters:
📍 Liverpool Seafarers Centre
20 Crosby Road South,
Liverpool, Merseyside,
L22 1RQ
📞 Tel: 0300 800 8080 / +44 300 800 8080
📧 Email: admin@liverpoolseafarerscentre.org
💬 24/7 WhatsApp Line: +44 7957 191 642
Thank you for helping us bring a touch of home to those at sea this Christmas!
