Fundraise for Mercy Ships

Every person who sponsors you is someone who now knows this work exists. That is worth as much as the total.

Ways people raise money

Physical challenges - a run, a swim, a cycle, a triathlon - work because sponsors can see the effort. Occasions work just as well: asking for donations instead of birthday, wedding or anniversary gifts.

Workplaces run team challenges and matched giving. Schools, churches and community groups hold events. Some people simply set a target and tell their friends why.

Say why you chose Mercy Ships

A specific reason raises more than a general appeal. If someone in your family has had surgery that was available to them and would not have been available elsewhere, say so. If a patient's story stayed with you, link to it.

People give to people. The cause explains what the money does; you explain why anyone should care.

Set a target that is a stretch, not a fantasy

A target you might just reach creates momentum. One that is obviously out of range makes early sponsors feel their gift is pointless.

Tell people what the total will pay for in general terms, and be careful not to promise that a specific sum funds a specific operation - costs vary enormously by procedure and by field service.

Keep talking, and thank people afterwards

Most fundraisers go quiet at exactly the point their sponsors are most interested. Post the training runs, the setbacks, the day it rained.

Afterwards, tell people what you raised and thank them. It is the difference between a one-off donation and someone who gives again next year.

Fundraising in memory of someone

Many people fundraise in memory of a person they have lost, or in honour of someone recovering. If that is your reason, say it plainly - and consider whether a memorial gift page might suit the occasion better than a challenge.

Support from us

The Mercy Ships office in your country can supply materials, answer questions about what to tell your sponsors, and advise on the fundraising platforms used locally. They can also tell you what is accurate to claim, which saves awkward corrections later.

Please keep it safe and lawful

Public collections, raffles, lotteries and prize draws are regulated in most countries and often require permission or a licence. Check the rules where you live before you plan.

If your event involves food, children, physical risk or a public space, think about insurance and safeguarding early. Talk to us if you are unsure - it is much easier to sort out beforehand than to unpick afterwards.

Questions about fundraising

How do I start fundraising for Mercy Ships?

Contact the Mercy Ships office in your country. They will tell you which fundraising platform is used locally, send you materials, and answer questions before you announce anything.

Is there a minimum amount I need to raise?

No. Small totals from many people are how most fundraising income arrives, and a modest amount raised by someone who told twenty friends about the work is worth more than the figure suggests.

Can I say my total pays for a particular operation?

Better not to. Costs differ substantially between procedures and field services, and funds go to the surgical programme as a whole rather than to a named patient. Your national office can tell you what is accurate to say.

Do I need permission for a collection or raffle?

Very often yes. Public collections, raffles, lotteries and prize draws are regulated in most countries. Check your local rules before planning, and ask us if it is not clear.

Can my workplace or school fundraise together?

Yes, and group fundraising often works better than individual appeals because people encourage each other. Many employers also match what staff raise, which can double a total for no extra effort.