NEW ROUND OF MEN’S SHED GRANTS OPEN FOR APPLICATION

A popular grants program which has helped improve the health and lifestyle of hundreds of men throughout the Riverina and Central West is offering a new round of funding.

During Men’s Health Week, Deputy Prime Minister and Member for Riverina Michael McCormack encouraged Men’s Sheds across the region to apply for a grant through Round 22 of the National Men’s Shed Development Programme (NDSP).

“I have visited Men’s Shed’s throughout the Riverina and Central West and have seen the power of good they do for the physical and mental health of men,” Mr McCormack said.

“During those visits, Men’s Shed members have proudly shown off the equipment they have been able to obtain with the help of a grant, including power tools, as well as solar panels, kitchen fit-outs and first aid training.

“The grants help Men’s Shed members do what they do best – support each other and contribute to the community.”

The president of Temora Shed 4 Men, Howard Ruth, said the Men’s Shed had obtained a grant of $6,704 in Round 20 of the NDSP, which had been used to supply and install a new kitchen.

The kitchen was “officially opened” in May with a morning tea.

“It has worked absolutely fantastic,” Mr Ruth said.

“It did everything we expected.”

Mr Howard said a recent raffle among members had raised $160 to support the work of the Salvation Army.

“This donation is an example of how important Men’s Sheds are to the fabric of our rural and regional communities,” Mr McCormack said.

Mr McCormack said the COVID-19 pandemic and social restrictions were a reminder of how important it was for men to stay connected to work mates, families and communities. Many Men’s Sheds were forced to close their doors during lock downs, but members were still able to stay in touch with each other by telephone and social media.

“Many Men’s Sheds have asked for better Information Technology equipment and training to help their members stay even more connected in the future and this grant round provides an opportunity for that to happen,” Mr McCormack said.

Men’s Sheds can apply for financial support across the following funding categories:

• Category 1: Health, Wellbeing and Events $8,000 maximum

• Category 2: Shed Improvements $8,000 maximum

• Category 3: Equipment $5,000 maximum

Applications for Round 22 Men’s Sheds grants are open until 26 July 2021.

Those wanting to submit an application can visit https://mensshed.org/development-grants

Fast facts

• Round 22 of the National Men’s Shed Development Fund provides for grants totalling $500,000.

• The Government has delivered $6.4 million in grant funding to support Men’s Sheds since 2013.

• There are more than 1,000 Men’s Sheds across Australia and they play a vital role in preventing social isolation and mental ill health.

Shane Manning