Going the Extra Mile: How a Liverpool Volunteer Shared a Special Moment with a Visiting Seafarer

At Liverpool Seafarers Centre, our volunteers are always here to provide a warm welcome, a friendly chat, and a comfortable place to rest. But every now and then, they get the chance to do something extra special to bring a bit of happiness to the people who visit us.

Working at sea is a demanding job that often keeps crew members away from home for months at a time, meaning they miss out on major family milestones. When the crew of the MV Atlantic Sun visited Liverpool Seafarers Centre, they were simply looking to pick up a few essential supplies and relax after a long journey.

A Thoughtful Gesture 

During a regular afternoon shift, Tricia, one of our regular volunteers, was working at the centre when she overheard a conversation involving Andrii, one of the MV Atlantic Sun crew members. Andrii was sharing some exciting news - his wife was due to give birth at any moment back home.

While Andrii and his crew went out into the city to do some shopping for their upcoming journey, Tricia decided to do something nice to mark the occasion. She went out and bought a celebratory card and a bottle of champagne, simply wanting him to feel supported. She had no idea just how perfect her timing would be.

Perfect Timing 

As it turned out, Andrii’s son was born that very evening. The good news arrived while Andrii was spending time at our centre, just hours before he was due to head back to his ship.

When Tricia presented him with the card and champagne, it was a wonderful, emotional moment. Mr Andrii was incredibly surprised and grateful. Even though he was thousands of miles away from his family during one of the biggest moments of his life, the team at the centre made sure he didn't have to celebrate alone.

"Thank you so much for your support and for the warm welcome at your centre on such a wonderful day. My son was born, and your kindness meant a lot to me. Today he has 1 week Birthday! I hope to visit you again soon !!" - Mr Andrii, MV Atlantic Sun

A Family Connection 

For Tricia, helping out in this way comes naturally. Her late father worked in the Merchant Navy, so she understands firsthand the sacrifices that seafarers and their families make to keep global trade moving. Today, she kindly volunteers her spare time to ensure that visiting crews always find a welcoming environment in Liverpool.

This Volunteers’ Week, we want to say a huge thank you to Tricia and our entire volunteer team. They do a fantastic job of bringing a sense of home and community to crews from all over the world.

If you would like to join our team and make a difference to visiting seafarers, please contact us to learn more about volunteering with us.