WEAC, Dover Recycling Committee, Sustainable Medfield & Charles River Repair Coalition Host Repair Café in Norwood

On Saturday, March 7, from 2:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m., the Westwood Environmental Action Committee, the Dover Recycling Committee, Sustainable Medfield and the Charles River Repair Coalition will co-sponsor the area’s 7th Repair Café at the Mill Forge Makerspace in Norwood.

Organizers note that their Repair Café in January was a great success, with "fixers" able to repair 86 percent of items that consumers brought in. They encourage the community to bring in their items that need mending, like broken bicycle wheels, sweaters with holes, or necklaces in need of a clasp. They note that lamps and clocks are popular items brought in for repair. 

Even if their fixers can’t fix it, consumers will usually be able to be directed to how to get a replacement part or where to get the item fixed.

At repair cafés, individuals bring broken items to volunteers who donate their time and tools to fix those items. Repair cafés are part of a grassroots movement aimed at reducing consumption and waste while also fostering community bonding. Since 2009, when the first repair café took place in Amsterdam, these events have proliferated throughout the world.

How it Works:

• Show up at Mill Forge Makerspace (61 Endicott Street, Building 46 in Norwood) with items you want to have repaired. Fixable items include jewelry, lamps, clothing, small furniture, small appliances, bikes, and locks that need to be rekeyed.

• A“fixers” – volunteers with particular repair skills and tools – will fix your item. Please note: fixing is free, but not guaranteed. Also, if your item needs a replacement part, you will need to buy or reimburse the fixer for that part.

• Mingle with neighbors at the event. Email westwoodenvironment@gmail.com with any questions.

Thanks to the Westwood Environmental Action Committee for contributing this news to Westwood Minute.