Don’t pitch it, fix it! Clean North hosts first-ever Repair Cafe in the Sault on April 26

Got a busted electrical plug, a wobbly bike, or pants in need of some TLC? Don’t toss it—fix it! Clean North is thrilled to launch Sault Ste. Marie’s very first Repair Cafe, happening Saturday, April 26, 2025, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Royal Canadian Legion Branch 25 at 96 Great Northern Rd.

This waste-busting event is part of a global movement to keep fixable items out of landfills while empowering people with repair know-how. Skilled volunteers will be on hand to tackle small electrical fixes (cords, plugs, switches), minor bike repairs, and sewing/textile mending and sock darning—giving new life to your favorite stuff instead of sending it to the dump.

How it works

Bring one item in need of repair (per person).
Items will go through a triage check to see if they’re fixable.
If repairable, you’ll sign up, sign a waiver, and wait your turn for expert help.
Volunteers will repair it on the spot or advise on next steps if parts are needed.

Note: This is our first Repair Cafe, and we have no way to know how many people will show up, so be prepared to be patient if there’s a lineup.

Also, the Friends of the Library will be there with their pop-up bookstore including fix-it and gardening books as well as some fiction.

This is more than just a fix-it event—it’s a movement toward sustainability

By repairing, reusing, and reducing, we’re cutting down waste being sent to the landfill, keeping valuable materials in use, and sharing skills that help build a circular economy. And repairing saves you money, too.

Let’s make broken the new fixable. Join us on April 26 to save your stuff, learn a thing or two, and help keep Sault Ste. Marie a little greener.