Port Mercy, the 20- acre Friend Ships home base in Lake Charles, Louisiana is where planning, preparation, and logistics take place for all missions, domestic and international. Here we house our ships, full-time volunteers, equipment, and supplies. We collect commodities for humanitarian aid and distribute them to organizations that assist the homeless, sick, impoverished, or victims of natural disasters, human trafficking, or war.
Port Mercy - FriendShips
Port Mercy - Visiting Groups
Here at PortMercy, Sunday a group from First United Methodist Church of Colleyville Texas – youth group. They are with us all week and working on the Pelican’s Nest (Challenger). They even helped remove a dividing wall in the main lounge/meeting room. Lot’s of cleaning and projects continue throughout the ship. What a blessing they are.
Port Mercy - Visiting Groups
Recently, we had a wonderful group from Missouri State University group – Christian Campus House. They are with us all week and started the day by offloading supplies from the ship that need to be discarded. They will move on later today to chipping the deck and preparing it for primer and paint.
The Greenhouse
Other Projects at Port Mercy
Other ongoing projects include restoring Port Mercy from hurricane damage we suffered to buildings and equipment and repairs, maintenance and upgrades to Friend Ships Integrity, an amazing tool for disaster relief. The ship carries 1000 tons of cargo, is able to house a larg
Wondering how you can help?
Get Involved - Serve with us
Your service can make a big difference at Port Mercy in Lake Charles, LA – Long-term or short-term. (Teams or groups are welcome to email us for availability).
StoreHouse One
Friend Ships rescues useable food that would otherwise be destroyed and distributes it to organizations and churches in the community that are assisting the poor, sick, elderly or homeless. To date, 66 million pounds of food has been collected and distributed. Not only is food given to those in need, but the program provides prayer and a personal touch that encourages those who are going through difficult times.
October 3, 2022 – We are providing food to a Lake Charles ministry that provides housing for homeless men and women.
The Riverboat - Refitting and transforming
At Port Mercy
The River Boat is being refitted from a former gambling facility to Christian Conference Center. The River Boat is currently hosting a fellowship service, please contact us for details. Events will grow to include youth seminars, prayer events, worship services, children’s activities, and more.