Men’s Sheds Canada has submitted recommendations to the Government of Canada’s 2025 pre-budget consultations, calling for stronger action to support the health, well-being, and community contributions of older men.
As Canada’s population ages, the challenges facing older men are becoming more urgent. By 2030, one in four Canadians will be over the age of 65. Older men are more likely to experience preventable illness, depression, suicide, and social isolation — yet they are often overlooked in health and social policy. At the same time, they represent a huge, under-utilized reservoir of skills and social capital that can strengthen Canadian communities.
Our Two Key Recommndations:
- Develop a National Men’s Health Strategy that addresses the unique needs and contributions of older men.
- Invest $3 million over five years through Men’s Sheds Canada to scale and support community-based programs that reduce isolation, improve well-being, and engage older men as valuable contributors to their families and communities.
Why This Matters:
With more than 170 Men’s Sheds now operating across the country — and a goal of reaching 1,000 by 2032 — we know that Sheds make a real difference. They provide welcoming, low-barrier spaces where men can connect, share skills, build friendships, and contribute to community life. We envision reaching 1,000 Sheds by 2032, and with modest federal investment, we can accelerate this impact — reducing loneliness, improving mental health, and strengthening community resilience.
By investing in men’s health and supporting grassroots solutions like Men’s Sheds, the federal government has the opportunity to improve quality of life, increase social impact, and unlock the contributions of thousands of older men in communities across Canada.
Read our full submission to the 2025 federal pre-budget consultations here.