By guest blogger Sisley Comish
Clean North has released Tears, Wears & Repairs: A Guide to Organizing Repair Cafes, a free resource designed to help communities launch their own repair‑focused events and extend the life of household items.
How it can help
The guide provides practical advice on planning and running a Repair Cafe, including marketing strategies, budgeting considerations, volunteer coordination, and day‑of operations. It draws on the experience of local organizers in Sault Ste. Marie who have successfully hosted multiple repair cafes.
“Organizing a Repair Cafe is not rocket science. You just need a small group of people with a passion for sustainability and some organizational skills—and a few handy folks,” said Bill Cole, Chair, Clean North, and Repair Cafe organizer.
Repair cafes in Sault Ste. Marie have already helped give a second life to clothing, electronics, bicycles, and other household items and keep these out of the landfill. The new guide highlights practical tips and best practices that communities can adapt to their own needs, offering flexible guidance on launching a Repair Cafe.
For more info
- The guide is available on the Clean North website
- More on Sault Ste. Marie Repair Cafes
- Questions? Email us at info@cleannorth.org
- Repair Cafe International is an excellent resource as well
About Clean North
Established in 1989, Clean North is a registered charitable environmental awareness group dedicated to helping Sault Ste. Marie to become as clean and green as possible.
