The Irish Men’s Sheds Association has launched an appeal for support after the coronavirus crisis has had a devastating effect on the organisation.
There are 65 men’s sheds in Dublin, helping to battle loneliness, isolation and boredom by bringing members – mainly older men – together for everything from a cup of tea to major DIY projects.
But with a national funding deficit averaging €1,286 per shed between March 13 and May 8, that adds up to a shortfall of over €80,000 in Dublin alone. With four weeks to be added to those figures, the total is now likely to be over €100,000.
While shed members, many of whom have been cocooning, are being supported as much as possible remotely, the fact that the sheds themselves are closed temporarily restricts their ability to fundraise. The association expects that it could be at least another three months before they can re-open.
As a result, the IMSA has launched the ‘Save Our Sheds’ (SOS) Fund, in order to support the sheds affected by Covid-19 and to keep as many open as possible.
Val Browne joined the Ballina Men’s Shed after his wife died. “The shed saved my life, that’s the truth of it,” he said.
“After my wife died, I was at a loss. I stayed in the house for weeks on end, my hair started to fall out. My family and friends tried everything to help me.
“A friend brought me to the local men’s shed, and to say I haven’t looked back is an understatement. The shed has given me a new lease of life. I’m there every day, and I’m looking forward to going back soon.”
Barry Sheridan, the CEO of IMSA, added: “Men’s sheds have been a vital part of our communities over the past decade, they have been there when we needed them, and now, they need you.”
You can donate to the SOS Fund at www.menssheds.ie/sos, or by texting SHEDS to 50300.
