The idea for a retirement foundation came from the island of Spetses. There was an elementary health care system there to support sick and destitute sailors. A sort of communal fund (known as “kassa”) was established with revenue from a 5% tax on profits from overseas voyages. Each captain was responsible for contributing the necessary amount to the fund. The island elders had the general supervision. The money was used to support sailors who were left unemployed or unable to work. The “kassa” also assisted the families of seamen who died abroad.