A newly formed group in Westlock, Alberta, focused on supporting men’s mental health through connection and skills-sharing, has received a $9,400 grant to secure a permanent meeting space. The Westlock Men’s Shed was presented with the funding in August 2026 from the 100 Women Who Care Westlock chapter.
Since July 2025, the Family and Community Support Services has worked to bring a Men’s Shed to Westlock by recruiting interested members. The group is now incorporated as a non-profit and has attracted over 25 men eager to join once a location is confirmed. River Sleno is serving as treasurer.
The concept behind Men’s Sheds is simple. They offer a comfortable place where men can gather to work on projects, share skills, and talk. The movement began in Australia in the early 1990s to address high unemployment and suicide rates. Canada’s first shed opened in 2009, and now there are more than 170 across the country.
Research led by Dr. Raza Mirza of HelpAge Canada found these sheds make a real difference. Before joining, 65.9 per cent of participants felt lonely. After finding a shed, 74 per cent felt a strong sense of belonging and 58 per cent saw their mental well-being improve.
The 100 Women Who Care Westlock meets four times a year. Three local groups give quick five-minute pitches, and members vote on who receives the pooled $100 donations from each person in attendance. The Westlock Men’s Shed presented its case at the June 17, 2026 meeting, competing against the Westlock Art Club and Amber’s Hope Maternity Home.
With the grant now in hand, the Westlock Men’s Shed can move forward with finding a stable home base in the community. Organizers say a dedicated space will let them offer regular activities and a consistent place for local men to connect and support each other.
