Clean North is hosting a Repair Cafe this Saturday, Oct. 17, to help residents give broken items a second life. The event, held at the Royal Canadian Legion Branch #25 in Sault Ste. Marie, seeks to divert goods from the landfill to address local waste capacity concerns.

Why is this event important?

Reducing waste is a priority as the Sault Ste. Marie landfill approaches its capacity. According to the organization, expanding the landfill is expected to cost tens of millions of dollars. By participating in the repair cafe, community members can help mitigate these costs while learning new practical skills and connecting with people who believe in making things last.

What can be repaired?

Volunteers will assess various items to see if they can be mended. While repairs are not guaranteed, the following categories are expected to be addressed:

  • Clothing, textiles, and leather goods
  • Jewelry and small wood items
  • Electrical items like lamps and toasters
  • Bicycles and minor bike repairs
  • Knife sharpening (maximum of two per person)
  • Houseplant repotting and device diagnostics

Some replacement parts or materials may require a small fee. Admission to the event is free, though donations to Clean North are welcome to help cover operational expenses. For clothing repairs involving zippers, participants should remove the old zipper and bring a replacement.

Community recycling and extra activities

In addition to the repair services, the Friends of the Library will host a pop-up bookstore featuring fiction and non-fiction books at low prices. Clean North will also serve as a collection point for various recyclable and reusable materials.

Items that can be dropped off for reuse or recycling include:

  • Gently used and clean shoes
  • Clean egg cartons with no residue
  • Clean reusable shopping bags
  • Flattened, clean Lock City milk bags
  • Eyeglasses and batteries
  • Aluminum can tabs and crayons

FAQ

Where is the event located?

The event will take place at the Royal Canadian Legion Branch #25, located at 96 Great Northern Road. Attendees are advised to park in the rear of the building.

Is there a cost to attend?

Admission is free, but the organization welcomes donations to help cover costs. Please note that replacement parts or specific materials used during repairs may involve a small charge.