Have you seen Albert in Caithness? Support Fishermen’s Mission special day
The Fishermen’s Mission (FM) charity, announces its first-ever National Support Day on October 14 with its Albert mascot collecting tins appearing across Caithness.
The charity, which works solely to support active and former fishermen and their families, will be fundraising for its National Fishermen’s Mission Support Day at various venues in the county.
Jackie Dodds, FM area officer for Caithness and Orkney, said: “For Supporters Day we have the Highland Haddie Fish and Chip van accepting one of our Alberts to collect for us; Annies Bakery is doing the same and a lady called Shena McBeath from Lybster is once again donating her time to organise a raffle.
“Tracy Mulraine, another supporter has successfully raised and donated £130. There are Alberts all over the county and if folk would like to donate, I would be delighted.”
Jackie said that FM is very active in the county and thanks the people of Caithness for their “continued generosity and kindness in their support of The Fishermen's Mission”.
“Every donation makes an incredible difference, providing much-needed assistance to those who turn to us during times of difficulty.
“Whether it is dropping coins in collecting boxes or participating in fundraising events, these contributions are a lifeline and allow us to provide emergency aftercare, if there has been an accident at sea, along with welfare support and pastoral care.
“The kindness shown encompasses the spirit of Caithness and the fondness shown to the Mission over the years.”
Ali Godfrey, director of business development for the charity says: “The Fishermen’s Mission began on October 14, 1881. Our founder, Ebenezer Mather, was in Eyemouth that day when 191 fishermen were drowned close to the coastline, leaving 93 widows and 267 children without a father.
“So distraught by what he saw, Mather went on to form the Royal National Mission to Deep Sea Fishermen, now also known as the Fishermen’s Mission. Staying true to his vision, 143 years later, we remain committed to providing services for this unique workforce and their families.”
The charity provides a whole range of services including financial, practical, pastoral and wellbeing services. Last year alone it supported its clients with £421,001 one-off grants and took on 785 new clients.
Further information, including how to access support or make a donation to its work can be found at: www.fishermensmission.org.uk
FM receives no government or lottery funding and relies on income raised from friends, supporters and foundations. Each year, £2.5m is needed to ensure that their services can still be provided against a backdrop of ever-increasing needs in local coastal communities. For every £1 that is generated, 88p is spent on providing its services around the whole of the UK coastline.