Shed Program calls for tool donations

A Woodridge program helping clients living with a disability to build brighter futures is calling for tools to be donated for the cause.

The Keystone Centre at Woodridge is a tool for change to support NDIS (National Disability Insurance Scheme) clients through tailored support and life skills programs.

A Lutheran Services not-for-profit, the Keystone Centre has provided community services in the Logan area since 1978, supporting clients living with a disability to follow their dreams.

On 30 April, the Keystone Centre is launching The Shed Program and is calling for locals to dig deep into their own sheds for unwanted tools in good condition.

Regional Manager for Lutheran Services’ Disability Services, Jules De Wit, says several clients were keen to pursue their interests in woodwork and furniture restoration.

‘We have a large on-site space where staff and clients aim to create something loosely based on TV’s The Repair Shop,’ Jules says.

‘The Shed Program will launch with only a basic supply of tools. We would love the wider community to consider donating any unwanted tools in good condition to the project.

‘We would appreciate donations of hammers, screwdrivers, wrenches, clamps, nails and screws, and power tools in working order such as sanders, drills and circular saws.’

Jules says clients will be closely supervised by support workers who share their keen interests in restoration and woodwork.

ABOVE: Lee is keen to learn how to use more tools at The Shed Program in Woodridge.

‘The goal is for our clients to learn new skills while completing projects that can be offered for sale, with the profits used to purchase further materials and tools,’ Jules says.

The Keystone Centre supports around 30 NDIS recipients from the Logan area, with 6 keen to sharpen their DIY skills.

‘I have never done woodwork before but I am really excited to learn more about it,’ a Keystone client named Matt says.

Jules expects when The Shed Program is operating, the number of participants will grow.

‘Our vision of inclusion and connection to the community is at the heart of what we do at Keystone,’ she says.

‘The centre is a community hub providing a wide range of life skill programs that allow clients to imagine the possibilities and achieve them.’

Lutheran Services provides a range of community services for disability, family, youth, mental health, domestic violence and seniors across Brisbane and regional Queensland.

To donate tools for the program, or for more information, call 0410 656 638.

PHOTO AT TOP: Matt is one of the keen clients using tools at The Shed Program in Woodridge.