Mercy Ships
Mercy Ships is an international faith-based charity operating hospital ships that provide free surgical care and medical training to developing nations, primarily in Africa, founded in 1978 by Don and Deyon Stephens.
Company facts
- Founded
- 1978
- Headquarters
- United States
- CEO
- Dr. Michelle White
About
Mercy Ships is a global faith-based charity that operates the world's largest non-governmental hospital ship fleet, bringing life-changing surgical care and transformational medical training to developing nations. Founded in 1978 by Don and Deyon Stephens, this humanitarian organization has served more than 2.7 million direct beneficiaries across 70+ countries, providing services exceeding $1 billion without regard for race, gender, or religion. The organization mobilizes volunteer medical professionals who serve aboard hospital ships, primarily along the African coast, where approximately 93% of the population lacks access to safe, affordable, and timely surgery. Beyond delivering free surgeries, Mercy Ships works alongside local partners to strengthen healthcare infrastructure in the nations they serve, training local healthcare professionals and building sustainable medical capacity. With offices worldwide and a fleet including the Africa Mercy and Global Mercy, Mercy Ships continues its mission to bring hope and healing to the forgotten poor through the dedication of thousands of volunteers.