If you are new to the seafaring world, you may be unaware of the services and amenities offered by the International Seafarers’ Center in Port Newark, New Jersey. As part of The Seamen’s Church Institute, a service agency dedicated to meeting mariners’ needs, the Center is open Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.
Both port workers and seafarers are served by the Center. Some who avail themselves of their services include stevedores, truck drivers and those working in warehouses.
The Center offers spiritual guidance, recreational activities and relaxation. Those in the industry can drop by to use computers and log onto WiFi. They sell low-priced telephone cards and offer international telephone service to allow seafarers to maintain contact with loved ones while they are ashore in the Port of New York and New Jersey. You can also transfer money here at the Center.
If you’re looking for a friendly game of ping-pong or basketball, stop by for a little exercise. You can also attend worship services and seek spiritual counseling when needed.
SCI can also arrange free shuttle service for seafarers to get to and from the Center, nearby stores and terminal gates.
It can be a dangerous and lonely life to sail the high seas for a living. Allowing the SCI to assist you with some basic needs and comforts may ease your burden and help you stay connected to those who are important in your life.
Because of the dangers inherent in the seafaring life, you may need to seek legal guidance from an attorney to help you be made whole again after being injured while working aboard a ship.