What began as a few local seamstresses mending clothes in a community hall has transformed into a citywide sustainable success story. Richmond’s Reuse & Repair Cafés have now completed more than 1,000 repairs, helping residents extend the life of their clothing, small appliances and more.
Since 2023, the Reuse & Repair Cafés have hosted 31events across 10 different City facilities, offering free repair on clothing, textiles, small appliances, bicycles and lawn mowers. A dedicated team of a dozen volunteer “repair experts” has helped keep these items in circulation and out of the landfill.
“These events showcase Richmond’s commitment to reducing waste and supporting a circular economy, allowing us to become less reliant on new resources,” said Mayor Malcolm Brodie. “Achieving one thousand repairs demonstrates that our residents are committed to extending the life of items by reusing and repairing, and also that local individuals are dedicated to sharing their skills to keep materials in use.”
Of the 1,012 repairs completed to date, 82 per cent are clothing and textiles, a major win in Richmond’s efforts to reduce textile waste. The sewing volunteers include members of the Textile Arts Guild of Richmond and experienced local seamstresses who bring both skill and community spirit to each event. From stitching a moth hole in a beloved sweater, or sewing a ripped duvet cover seam, to reviving small appliances, every repair represents a small but powerful act of sustainability.
In keeping with Richmond’s Rethink Waste initiatives, many residents are purchasing bicycles second hand and bringing them to the Reuse & Repair Café for maintenance tips and tune-ups. Richmond brothers and volunteer bike repair-experts, Kelvin and Peter, enjoy both the challenge and satisfaction each appointment brings to help fellow residents.
Responding to growing community interest, the City recently expanded its Café’s services to include small appliances and electronics. Repair experts note that many items, such as toasters and blenders, are often not designed for easy repair. This makes repairs more complex and helps attendees gain a deeper appreciation for mindful consumption choices.
In addition to repairing items, residents can swap/drop-off/take gently-used items at the reuse station, to keep usable items in circulation.
At each event, City staff collect data about each repair and submit the information to the Repair Café International Foundation. The Foundation has inspired over 2,500 repair cafés worldwide, celebrating the value of repairing and repair skills. Reuse & Repair Cafés are funded with assistance from Metro Vancouver.
The City invites residents to join the next Reuse & Repair Café and be part of Richmond’s growing circular economy movement. For a list of upcoming events, to book your appointment, or volunteer as a repair expert, visit richmond.ca/rethink.