Recreation and dining facilities at USS centers give seafarers a comfortable place to relax before returning to their ships.
Centers also plan social, athletic and holiday programs.
USS responds to queries from the world over and cooperates with other seafarers' agencies to resolve family problems aggravated by the marine's absence from home. The long victimization of seafarers on the waterfronts of the world led to the first efforts to provide special programs in recognition of the unique character of the industry and its toll on seafarers. The inadequacy of international programs led to the First International Conference on Seamen's Welfare, convened in Genoa in 1920. Prolonged isolation from home communities, families and friends, long periods of confinement aboard ship, and brief liberty in foreign ports make seafarers vulnerable to unscrupulous elements preying on waterfronts. USS programs offer relief from tensions and stress, thereby aiding in preventing breakdowns.