Federal Member for Page Kevin Hogan said the Clarence River U3A Men’s Shed will receive $5,400 from the Government to continue to promote and support men’s health and wellbeing in the Clarence Valley. The grant will fund the purchase a modular flat-pack kitchen base and overhead cabinets. This programme allows Men’s Sheds to apply for funds to better respond to local needs. Applications can support items such as: • tools and equipment • purpose built workspaces • improvements to existing Men Shed facilities • costs incurred to undertake activities that raise awareness of preventable health problems, promote or support the health and wellbeing of members • costs associated with provision of training, seminars or undertaking major community projects. Mr Hogan said the Men’s Shed Programme is providing benefits for the community at large. “The community is benefiting from the projects undertaken in the sheds and family ties are becoming stronger with happier and healthier men,” he said. “Men’s Sheds reduce social isolation, particularly for older men and men living in regional communities, enabling positive social interactions, enhancing health and wellbeing in the men who attend.” Grants are competitive, with priority given to sheds in disadvantaged areas. A further funding round is expected to be called soon. Details can be found at: www.mensshed.org