The Mission to Seafarers Canada

The Gratefulness Challenge

December 8, 2025 – January 31, 2026

During the holiday season, many of us gather in warmth and celebration with family and friends. But for thousands of seafarers spending the holidays at sea or in distant Canadian ports, the season can feel lonely and far from home.

As we enter the darkest days of winter, let’s take a moment to reflect on our blessings and on the seafarers whose work brings us the goods and gifts that make our celebrations possible.

Seafarer looks out at the shore and is lonely during the holiday season.

Spread Gratitude and Hope to Seafarers

Share kindness from shore to sea by reflecting on your blessings, sending a note of thanks to a seafarer, and giving to support those spending the holidays far from home.

Send a note to a crew member to share your gratitude with them

Share Your Gratitude with Someone special

Mission to Seafarers Canada is part of a global ministry dedicated to caring for the world’s seafarers, men and women who work tirelessly at sea to keep global trade moving.

A little girl hugs her seafarer father after he gets home from a trip at sea

Make a donation to send a gratefulness e-card

Choose Design

Think about the people and moments you share that make this season meaningful. It could be a message from someone you love, the comfort of a cup of coffee at home together, the warmth of shared laughter, or the joy of travelling together.

These are the blessings that remind us how connection and kindness can brighten even the longest journeys.

Choose an E-Card

A mom and child wake up on Christmas morning and write a note to their seafarer loved one.

Write a Crew Member a Note of Gratitude

This holiday season, take a moment to share that same spirit with those at sea.

Write a short note of gratitude or encouragement to a seafarer with a few heartfelt words that can bring comfort and light to someone far from home.

Your Message

Write a short message of gratitude below and it will be sent directly to crew.

A seafarer looks ou9t at sea and misses his family.

Give to Support Seafarers

Send a Donation

Extend your gratitude beyond words by helping those who spend months at sea. Make a one-time gift or become a monthly donor to provide ongoing care, comfort, and connection for seafarers visiting Canada’s ports. Canadian tax receipts issued for eligible gifts.

Ask a Friend to Give

Not everyone knows that Seafarers need help this season so spread the word by entering the email address of a friend below.

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Your Impact

Your gift powers Mission to Seafarers Canada’s holiday outreach: snacks and refreshments, Wi-Fi/SIMs to call home, transport to centres and shops, chaplain ship visits, emergency support, and care kits.