The newly founded 100 Mile House Men's Shed is looking for a location to set up shop.
Terry Palchuk, the vice president of the 100 Mile House Men's Shed, stated that they are looking for a "small, inexpensive or free space that can be used for a workshop." Palchuk noted that they would not change the space in any way, and would be insured. The 100 Mile House Men's Shed was created "for the stability and mental state of keeping elderly people - widowers, away from their TVs and get them back socializing", said Palchuk. Nine members currently make up the 100 Mile House Men's Shed.
"We will be applying to the Men's Shed Association of BC for a grant that will cover liability insurance," Palchuk said. "We don't need anything too large - because a garage would be perfect because it's easy to maintain. We're willing to exchange rent for maintenance around you know, the house or location."
In a Facebook post, Palchuk noted that the Men's Shed will "become the home where they will hold meetings every week to ten days and work on various projects."
Palchuk stated they have been looking at several locations, from those in the commercial zone of 100 Mile House, much to little luck. They have received assistance from the District of 100 Mile House, specifically from Mayor Maureen Pinkney. However, the District did not have enough room for their own needs and were storing stuff at different locations.
"She came up with a few ideas that we followed through with no success," stated Palchuk.
The Men's Shed has received some offers from two locations, but they had to turn them both down: the first came from Williams Lake, and the second, despite being a garage in what was described as a beautiful location at 108 Mile Ranch, had no power. The Men's Shed needs power, says Andy Gray, the president of the 100 Mile House Men's Shed, because "a lot of the work we do requires electricity."
"Hopefully we get a place and get a few sales that we will have enough income to you know, pay for electricity, pay for this, pay for that, but we need a starting place for now," stated Palchuk.
Gray said that the preferred situation is that they would exchange work for dollars and rent.
Those interested in helping the Men's Shed are asked to contact Gray at mensshed100milehouse@outlook.com or to call him at 604-626-6616.
