Senegal Day Crew Take Action Against COVID-19
In each field service, Mercy Ships hires local day crew to work on the Africa Mercy and in every other Mercy Ships operational site to help our mission of bringing hope and healing to the forgotten poor. Our programs could not be delivered without the support of our day crew. While there is a vast number of positions, a few examples include: Translators, Engineering Assistants, Security, Deck Hands, Dining Room Staff, etc. Some of the most valuable friendships our volunteer crew members form are with the day crew they have worked with, and it is deeply encouraging to observe the ways these individuals continue to work together to support the vulnerable population even after the field service has ended.
Following the recent departure of Mercy Ships from Senegal due to the COVID-19 pandemic, members of the day crew have taken collective action by forming an association to join the battle against the virus in their nation. This association, the “Mouvement d’Anciens Volontaires de Mercy Ships (MAVMS)” (Movement of Mercy Ships Former Volunteers) has initiated and launched the Together Fight COVID-19 campaign. This COVID-19 project is the unique mission of the MAVMS so far and is coordinated by one of the HOPE Centre day crew.
The MAVMS Coordinator expressed gratitude for the opportunity they have been given to serve with Mercy Ships, which has taught them how to love and serve others. The plan is to register the association in Senegal and establish a local bank account for support.
Their first action on the field was in “Marché de Tilene and the aisle from Abass Ndao hospital” on Friday April 17th where they distributed hand sanitizers, face masks and food to the poor. So far, activities are being held with the money raised within the group (individual contributions of each day crew member).
They hope that the Senegal Ministry of Health and Social Action will reply positively to the association and offer to use them in the fight against COVID-19.
We at Mercy Ships Canada are so inspired by this locally led initiative and the incredible demonstration of small acts that are making a big difference in Senegal.
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The Africa Mercy Arrives in Madagascar to Bring Hope and Healing Anew
Freshly refitted hospital ship, the upgraded Africa Mercy® has arrived at the island nation to build on the charity’s longstanding collaboration and will provide specialized surgeries in various fields, including maxillofacial and ear nose and throat, general, pediatric specialized general, pediatric orthopedic, cataract surgery, and reconstructive plastics.
Reuniting with Vanya, Years After Surgery
In 2015, in an operating room on board the Africa Mercy while docked in Madagascar, the course of Vanya’s life changed.
Years have now passed since Vanya’s journey toward healing. In the time since, her improved ability to walk allowed her to return to school, where she loved studying environmental science and learning about the world around her.
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Kadidja: A Future as Bright as her Smile
At Mercy Ships Canada, we serve those who have lost hope, bringing healing and transformation. Our volunteers, inspired by their faith, work selflessly to perform surgeries that renew not only bodies but also faith and hope. This Christmas, be a part of the miracle by making a donation to Mercy Ships Canada. Your contribution will help renew faith and offer a second chance at life. Together, we can make a significant impact on those who have suffered for too long.
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