The PTMTA has long had a can at the Penny Savers Mart called the Lifeboat Fund can. Coho Printing has also generously begun hosting a Lifeboat Fund can on their check out counter. This fund builds coin by coin, dollar by dollar and takes years to amount to a worthy sum. Originally, the fund was intended to help Marine Trades folk facing surprise medical challenges at a time when most of us did not have health insurance. Today, we also take note of any disastrous event brought to our attention that impacts a member’s ability to work. The fund has been awarded over the years to several people in need, as a token of our support; “token,” because it has rarely been more than $500 at a time. $500 in hand can still be significant and as our marine trades community grows and also ages, we are increasing our efforts to build the fund more rapidly. Most often, our community members do not complain about their circumstances and it is friends who bring situations to our attention. Out of respect for people’s privacy as they deal with personal hardship, we record but do not publicize Lifeboat fund awards.

In January 2022, the Lifeboat Fund was awarded and we are now seeking to rebuild it so we can help others. If you would like to donate to the lifeboat fund, there are several ways;

In person at Penny Savers and Coho Printing.

By check to: The PTMTA, PO Box 1214, Port Townsend, WA, 98368 (write Lifeboat on reference line)

Online: Select Lifeboat Fund and ” + ” in increments of $25

If you would like to host a LIFEBOAT FUND can at your place of business, please contact ptmarinetrades @gmail.com. (no spaces)