The Honda Foundation along with Hornsby Honda has donated over $8,000 to the Hornsby-Berowra Men’s Shed (HBMS) to purchase machines that dress used timber, thus recycling it to use on community projects.
Hornsby-Berowra Men’s Shed is a community-based incorporated association of retired and unemployed men. They work on projects that benefit the community or individuals in need that might not have the skills or resources to attempt themselves. HBMS has over 11 years’ experience serving their local community in northern, suburban Sydney.
Back in 2008, three men were discussing health problems afflicting men after retrenchment or retirement from the workforce. Chief among these was loneliness and depression which was a growing problem in the area. They hit upon the idea of starting a men’s shed. At a public meeting, around 80 men attested to the need for a men’s shed, with over 30 becoming members.
The Honda Foundation and Hornsby Honda has provided HBMS funding for the purchase of a Thicknesser machine, which reduces the depth of timber down to the required size and a Drum Sander which sands and gives the timber a smooth surface.
HBMS recycles donated timber from building sites and deceased estates. The machines will allow the men who re-purpose the timber to ensure that it is safe and stable to utilise across projects in the community.
“It is so great to see so many men from one community coming together to support one another and make such a positive difference in their community,” said Chairman of The Honda Foundation, Mr. Stephen Collins.
Recently, Hornsby Council has offered a small block of land to HBMS for their new workshop. A shed on this land will allow for up to 100 men to join and be part of the men’s shed.
“We are so thrilled that The Honda Foundation has been able to help our Men’s Shed. The donation has allowed us to purchase two machines that will not only improve our facilities but will ensure that our materials are safe and of the highest quality” said Peter Gregory, Secretary of Hornsby-Berowra Men’s Shed.
The Honda Foundation is funded by contributions from Honda Australia, private donors and more than 100 dealerships across the country. For nearly every new Honda vehicle sold in Australia, $15 is donated to the Foundation. Close to $11 million has so far been donated to hundreds of very worthy causes.
For more information on what The Honda Foundation does, please visit https://www.thehondafoundation.com.au/