Serving those in need since 1978
Globally, 5 billion people lack access to safe surgery. Children, teens and adults suffer and die every day from treatable causes, and one child in eight will die before age 5.
With the support of people like you, we deploy hospital ships to combat this overwhelming statistic. Since over 50% of the world’s population lives near a coast, it's the best way to reach people in great need with state-of-the-art medical care.
Our Mission
Adama, eye patient, at home after her surgery.
Help save & transform lives.
Give Monthly
Your gift multiplies in impact to bring free life-changing surgery and improved healthcare to the world's forgotten poor.
Driven to provide hope & healing.
Mercy Ships began our mission in 1978 to provide hope and healing to those in need. Each year we send hospital ships filled with volunteer professionals who selflessly provide life-changing surgeries to children and adults who otherwise would go without. Together we are saving lives.
The power in a hug. Or a helping hand.
The work we do together is nothing short of compassion made physical — providing a healing touch that is transformative in the lives of our patients, our crew and anyone involved in our mission.
Dr. Sara Kwok carries cleft patient, Saliou on board. | Senegal
Your professional skills have the power to transform lives.
If you’ve always wanted to use your unique talent and skills to transform lives and make your mark on the world, we’ve got an opportunity for you. The work of Mercy Ships impacts the lives of many — patients, families, and volunteers. It’s a transformative experience that enables personal and professional growth, and we’re looking for you to join us.
Volunteer with us
Will Creene, radiology technician | Africa Mercy
Impacting millions, globally.
Through surgical care, medical training, and infrastructure development, we impact millions. With your help, Mercy Ships is working to meet the overwhelming need for safe surgery worldwide.
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Lives Impacted
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Surgical Procedures
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Professionals Trained
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Annual Volunteers
Stories, Press Releases & Blog
Explore the latest from Mercy Ships.
New Mercies: Abdul Cole
Waiting in Line Changed His Life Forever Abdul Cole grew up in Sierra Leone as one of seven children. When the Africa Mercy arrived in his home country, Abdul had ...
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Bridging the Gap of Anesthesia Care in Guinea
For Marthe Lamah, becoming an anesthetist was a life-long dream. “Since I was little, I always liked to help vulnerable people,” she shared — and she believed patients receiving surgery ...
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New Mercies: Debbie and Dorcas Nutsugah
Twin Sisters Doubling Their Impact On Board Debbie Nutsugah came to volunteer on board the Africa Mercy for 6 months as a biomedical technician. But before her 6 months were ...
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