The Federal Minnesota

By Sydney Goodreau

At the end of June 2025, a scarlet-red bulk carrier named The Federal Minnesota arrived at the harbour in Oshawa, Ontario, with 22 crew members from India. Volunteer Jill Wyllie climbed aboard to welcome the crew to Canada and, in MTSSO fashion, she offered to bring the crew to land to restock on necessities and enjoy some of the local sights. 

“They were delighted with Lakeview Park and its beach,” said Wyllie. The beach is a favourite destination for seafarers in Oshawa during the warm, summer months. And since the ship remained in Oshawa during Canada Day, the crew got to experience true Canadian culture with a grandstand view of Oshawa’s fireworks display from the deck of their ship. 

While in Oshawa, Wyllie arranged for volunteers to shuttle the crew to and from the Oshawa Centre. Those docked for days at a time often want to change money and visit various shops before their journey resumes. “They were very appreciative and a pleasure to deal with,” Wyllie said.

After one particularly extensive shopping trip, Wyllie was invited to join the ship captain for dinner, something not entirely common during visits. Wyllie reflected, “I was very impressed with the interior of the ship… It's in beautiful shape.”

Though brief, Wyllie’s visit with The Federal Minnesota crew highlights what is at the heart of Mission to Seafarers: human connection. Volunteers at MTSSO offer practical support to ship crews, from shuttling people to shopping centres to providing gift baskets. But sometimes a genuine connection can be found through striking up a conversation and offering a listening ear to those eager to share their experiences. Other times, connection can be found through fellowship over a meal. 

It all starts with a visit to the ship harbour.