By Jason Zuidema, NAMMA
On Thursday, August 29, the Port of Montreal was the setting for a meaningful and festive fundraising lunch in support of the Mariner’s House of Montreal. The event, catered by Le Muscadin Restaurant—renowned for its authentic Italian cuisine since 1987—brought together a diverse group of stakeholders from the port community, all united by a common cause: to support the well-being of the seafarers who pass through the Port of Montreal.
The lunch featured 35 sponsored tables, each representing different segments of the maritime community, from shipping companies to local businesses. Organized by the dynamic Carolyn Osborne and Cindy Fairhurst, along with the dedicated staff of Mariner’s House, the event was a true testament to the collaborative spirit within the port. A team of 20 volunteers, led by the brilliant Maître D’ Mr. Julian Hung, ensured that the luncheon was both elegant and smoothly executed.
Carolyn Osborne, Manager of Mariner’s House, took a moment to express her deep gratitude to those who made the event possible. “This event brings members of the maritime community together in the port. Proceeds from the event this year will be good. We couldn’t do the event without supporters and volunteers. I am so grateful to them,” she said.
Julie Gascon, President and CEO of the Port of Montreal, spoke to the critical importance of mariner’s houses worldwide, emphasizing how essential they are to the safety, well-being, and mental health of seafarers. “Montreal cannot be prouder than having one beautiful Mariner’s House and to be part of the adventure of supporting those who feed us and provide all of what we need to live and are doing amazing work day in and day out on our international waters and Canadian waters,” Gascon stated.
The significance of the maritime community’s involvement was further highlighted by Ms. Gascon, who said, “Without mariners there is no economy, no growth, no resiliency, there is no supply chain. They are the people who ensure that goods move. They are so critical to everything that we hold dear and everything that we do.”
Chris Hall, President and CEO of the Shipping Federation of Canada, echoed these sentiments, stressing the vital role of facilities like Mariner’s House. “Seafarer welfare is at the top of most people’s agenda in the maritime industry, so supporting events like this is absolutely mission critical. Without facilities like Mariner’s House and others across the country, then who is going to take care of seafarers when in port? They are busy and have lots of responsibilities and they need that home away from home. That is so important. Without events like this, that home away from home gets less homey,” Hall remarked.
Domenic Bravi, President of the Board of Directors for Mariner’s House, expressed his heartfelt thanks to everyone who participated, from sponsors to volunteers, and acknowledged the critical role of Carolyn Osborne and the Mariner’s House staff. “We need to take care of the needs of the sailors that come to the Port of Montreal,” Bravi emphasized. He encouraged the entire Montreal port community and those in the shipping business to continue supporting Mariner’s House, calling it “one of the best causes to support in the marine industry.”
The luncheon was not only a celebration of the hard work and dedication of those involved but also a reminder of the vital services that Mariner’s House provides to seafarers. Covering the full breadth of the 26 km port, the chaplains and staff of Mariner’s House, along with their colleagues from the Ministry to Seafarers and Stella Maris, work tirelessly to meet the needs of seafarers, whether on ship or shore. They provide transportation, a welcoming space to relax with free Wi-Fi and recreational activities, and the opportunity to purchase personal items—all while offering a chance to connect with someone other than their crewmates.
As the lunch drew to a close, it was clear that the Mariner’s House of Montreal is more than just a facility; it is a lifeline for the thousands of seafarers who pass through the port each year. The support shown at this event ensures that Mariner’s House will continue to be a “home away from home” for those who work tirelessly on the seas, far from their families and homes.
Learn more about Mariner’s House at: marinershouse.ca
