From the very beginning, the Deutsche Evangelische Seemannsmission as an association has supported with word and deed the Paldiski Evangeelne Meremisjon, and has also provided financial assistance. In May 2000, during a course at the townhall of Paldiski offered on behalf of the DESM, the prospective shipboard counsellors were thoroughly prepared and trained for their tasks by naval captain (retired) Wulf Plesmann, the then chairman of the seamen‘s mission Kiel, and his wife.
In June 2000 premises for the activities of the Meremisjon were rented in a concrete tower block, and an office equipment including PC, printer, fax and telephone was purchased. Through the help of the DESM, the North Elbian Diakonie provided furniture for the premises. When the rental agreement for these premises expired in 2005, a more appropriate property was found in the town centre, and purchased with DESM's financial support for the Estonian Seamen's mission Paldiski. During the following years the place was redesigned into a seamen's club by do-it-yourself work. In remembrance of Wulf Plesmann who died in 2012, it is named "International Seamen's Club Wulf Plesmann". Two years ago, the club was again refurbished comprehensively. In addition to the large club area equipped with a bar, pool table and a TV, there is also an office providing internet access for the guests, a room for seamen staying overnight and a toilet with washing facilities.
The support for Paldiski Evangeelne Meremisjon's commitment is still of fundamental importance – until the Estonian country or the municipality of Paldiski will provide sufficient means for staff and maintenance costs of the premises and for the Multivan/Transporter. Our experience has demonstrated that the Estonian authorities show much more interest in a project if an additional specific support is granted by Germany. Money is needed, for example, for the payment of energy and phone bills, for heating expenses, trips with the seamen, for maintenance and repair, and for the development of the seamen's club, for purchasing new equipment, and much more.