The Irish Men’s Sheds Association (IMSA), the representative body for over 460 men’s sheds in Ireland, has launched an emergency fundraising campaign to help support men’s sheds, following a survey which showed 82% of men’s sheds have had their fundraising affected by COVID-19.

The survey of men’s sheds also showed that 82% of sheds are worried about their financial security, with the average shed losing €1,286 from 13 March to 8 May, or a combined €591,560 for the 460 sheds across the country. To help ease the pressure being experience by sheds across Ireland, the national association has launched the Save Our Sheds (SOS) Fund, which will be distributed to sheds affected by the crisis.

Sheds are temporarily closed and may face another three months of closure, further restricting their ability to fundraise.

Speaking on the launch of the fundraising campaign, CEO of IMSA Barry Sheridan said: “It is very concerning to see that the majority of men’s sheds are being financially impacted by the COVID-19 crisis. It is hard to find a sector, group or individual that has not been affected.

“We have always been committed to supporting our sheds, that is why we are launching our Save Our Sheds Fund. We are aiming to raise enough funds so that we can provide support to the sheds affected by COVID-19, and to keep as many sheds open as possible.

“The 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.”

Also commenting was Val Browne, a Ballina Men’s Shed member who joined after his wife died: “The shed saved my life, that’s the truth of it. 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.”

People can help support the SOS Fund by donating online at www.menssheds.ie/sos, or by texting ‘SHEDS’ to 50300.

Read more

Men's Sheds: sheds get the X-factor treatment

A shed with a difference