Seafarers’ House at Port Everglades has launched the public phase of its “Place of Welcome” Campaign to build a new home for the mariners who visit the port.
The announcement was made at its annual Golden Compass Gala on May 19, honoring President and CEO of Royal Caribbean International Michael Bayley, who announced that the cruise line is committing $500,000 to the campaign.
The three-year, $4.5 million fundraising effort will allow Seafarers’ House to build a new facility, as well as provide a way to sustain the operations of programs and services offered to meet the ever-expanding needs of mariners who visit the port. Currently, the port hosts more than 4,000 ship calls each year.
The new 15,000-square-foot building will be constructed on an expanded footprint at the same location as the existing building inside Port Everglades. It will allow for the consolidation of administration and operations under one roof, offering a facility that provides for the emotional, physical and spiritual wellness of seafarers.
Several other organizations also have stepped up with lead gifts including: Carnival Cruise Lines; Cliff Berry, Inc.; Holland America Line; Princess Cruises; SEACOR Holdings, Inc.; The ITF Seafarers’ Trust; and The TK Foundation.
Seafarers’ House welcomes nearly 150,000 mariners annually, providing them with practical resources, emergency assistance and access to faith-based counseling and services and resources 365 days a year.
The new campus will include:
• A meditation garden where mariners can relax and enjoy the outdoors;
• Expanded recreation areas to improve overall health and wellness;
• An improved experience shopping for essential personal items;
• Space for training, meetings, and professional development;
• A café with indoor and outdoor seating so visitors can enjoy a hot meal with friends.
Seafarers’ House also will continue to offer wire transfer services, free WiFi, and a chapel for multidenominational services, but in a newly upgraded setting.
Seafarers’ House anticipates groundbreaking to commence mid-year 2019. Keith & Associates Inc. is donating site planning and engineering services, and Merrill Romanik of Synalovski Romanik Saye is the architect.