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Savannah luncheon benefits charity that cares for seafarers
Andy Krey maritime bethel savannah
Andy Krey is chaplain and executive director of Maritime Bethel Savannah. - photo by Photo provided.

SAVANNAH — The Rotary Club of Savannah West is joining forces with The Maritime Bethel at Savannah to host an appreciation and awareness People of the Sea luncheon at Harborside Center East at the Hyatt Regency, 2 W. Bay Str. in Savannah from 12:30-1:30 p.m. June 16.

This annual initiative enters its second year with a reminder that ships carry more than cargo. Lunch costs $30 with an optional donation to support the Georgia Rotary Student Program. The event includes a rendition of the national anthem by trumpeter Chiz Rider, a presentation on the safety, security and well-being of seafarers as well as the opportunity to watch ships pass by from the Hyatt Regency’s windows.

The event is to raise awareness about seafarers, who help bring the estimated 90 percent of items used by Americans imported by ship.

The Maritime Bethel is a nonprofit organization that advocates for the safety, security and well-being of seafarers and provides "far away from home" personal and practical support to seafarers who come into the port of Savannah on ships from all over the world. The organization needs funds and volunteers to continue helping seafarers. Savannah is one of the fastest growing seaports in North America.

Andy Krey, Maritime Bethel chaplain and executive director, said, "We are very grateful to the Rotary Club of Savannah West who are hosting this lunch to help us raise awareness of the ‘far away from home’ needs of over 78,000 seafarers arriving every year at our seaport. Since 1981, the Maritime Bethel at Savannah has met seafarers’ needs for shore leave, contacting loved ones at home and providing spiritual nurture."

Reservations are required by Monday. Call or text 912-441-4640.

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