Sailors Find Rest and Helping Hands at Twin Ports Seafarers Center

DULUTH - The shipping season is officially underway in the Twin Ports, and that means sailors are given a chance to explore the area while their ship is being loaded and unloaded. But many sailors coming into shore don't have a place to go once in the city, or have limited access to transportation.

That’s where the Seafarers Twin Ports Ministry comes in.

Established in 1969, the Seafarers Center is a place for sailors from Lakers and Salties to go for the afternoon, or all night while their ship is being refilled in the harbor.

"One of the places that really touch my own heart it, what is it we do, It's people we meet," said board member and incoming director Doug Paulson, who's been with the organization for years.

First started in a home near the port, the seafarers center ministry later bought St. Clements Catholic Church in west Duluth.

"When they bought the church in 1974 the church was still here," said the ministries Director Tom Anderson. "But hopes of converting that into a worship space for seafarers and interested people in the community just never developed."

The center originally took up both floors of the church's rectory, but with technology advances allowing ships in ports to fill faster, the ministry eventually moved to a single floor downstairs.

"The seafarers aren't actually in this building as much. And so we're able to entertain them on the lower level," Anderson said.

But even with a smaller space, both Anderson and Paulson say the center is busier than ever.

"We've really expanded over the last few years to be able to show the impact the seafarers ministry has had in this whole area," Paulson said.

Whether it's internet access, a phone card to call home or a trip to the grocery store, the center tries to make life a little easier for sailors coming off the ship. And even if they're only off the ship for a few hours, Paulson says it can make a big difference.

"Seafarers can come into this particular center and know that they're very welcome," Paulson said. "And that there's an opportunity for people to say we really care what you are doing, we're really happy that you are here."

If you would lend a helping hand to the center, Anderson says they are always looking for donations. You can visit their website, theseafarerscenter.org, to find out more.