Established in 2015, Oranmore Men’s Shed has played an integral part in improving the lives of local men by combating social isolation and loneliness to create a community that supports each other.
Since the nationwide establishment of Men’s Sheds in 2009, Ireland has become the leading nation for the structure with most sheds per capita. Nationally, there are some 450 sheds across the country, with some 25 sheds in Galway alone. Oranmore Men’s Shed has been supporting local men for more than a decade in a premises that was no longer fit for purpose for some 30 members.
After a decade of fundraising and an eight year wait to get a shed that the substantial group can fully utilise, the wait is finally over with the new 115 square meter steel fabricated unit to be officially opened at an event on Friday, June 16 at 12 noon.
The group say they are “deeply indebted to all who made this dream a reality, from a major philanthropic donor, corporate donations, support from local business and groups and generous help from the local community as well as shed members and their families.”
Public funding was supplied to the group by LEADER, the Local Community Development Committee of Galway County Council and HSE lottery. The Irish Men’s Shed association also gave financial help. The group say that a “special thanks” goes out to Oranmore Community Development Association for providing the fitting and accessible location for the new and improved shed.
In a statement discussing the new shed, the group say that the new premises gives fresh life to an invaluable support for local men through education, health focused events and social programmes.
“The new shed will give fresh life to what is already an invaluable support in terms of social, health and occupational benefits for local men in the Oranmore and surrounding areas. New members, including retirees will be accommodated and an improved range of activities will be offered.
