What is the Repair Café Fairfield?
The Repair Café Fairfield is a free community event to which people can bring their damaged items from home to be repaired by volunteer “Fixers”. It’s also a chance to learn, with like-minded folks who believe in reusing instead of just discarding still-useful goods into the landfill. You can watch and even help, while enjoying a cup of tea or coffee. It is a positive, friendly and interesting experience for all.
It is also part of an international movement. The Repair Café concept originated in 2009 with Martine Postma, who organized the very first event, to which dozens of residents brought their broken items, to a theatre in Amsterdam. This early success prompted her to launch the Repair Café Foundation in 2011. There are now 1,100+ Repair Cafés in 27 countries, spread across six continents.
What kinds of things can be fixed?
LOTS! Anything that’s broken (and which you can manage to carry) is welcome and has a good chance of getting properly repaired. Large appliances such a stoves are not practical to repair at this 3-hour event.
Do I need to bring any tools or supplies?
You don’t have to bring tools, but if your item requires a light bulb or battery, please bring one along (& make sure it works first).
What if my item needs a part?
The Repair Café does not have a large amount of spare parts in stock. Small things such as switches, plugs, wire, thread or darning wool may be available. For other supplies, visitors will usually be given advice on where to buy the part in question.
Do I have to register ahead of time?
No. When you arrive at the event, you will be asked to fill out a short form that helps us keep everyone’s repairs organized.
Is parking available?
Due to the Moss Street Market event which runs concurrently, car parking is limited around the Fairfield Community Place. Consider riding a bike, walking or taking the bus instead.
How do I get there by bus?
Bus #7 runs right by the Fairfield Community Place, stopping at Moss St. Route #3 runs nearby along May St, while the #1 route runs along nearby Richardson.
Can I bring my child with me?
Sure! We hope to have a kid’s table set up with toys and other playthings.
Is the event wheelchair accessible?
Yes. There is a wheelchair ramp at the main entrance. There are also accessible washrooms.
How long will my repair take?
It depends. Fixers can usually make an assessment within a few minutes, with most repairs then taking 15 minutes to half an hour. If an item requires a more lengthy repair, and there are others waiting their turn, you may be asked to make other arrangements.
Can I drop something off and pick it up later?
No, you will need to stay with your item. An important part of the Repair Café is learning about fixing.
Are there other Repair Cafés in the region?
Yes. There are now Repair Cafés in downtown Victoria, Saanich, Colwood and View Royal. Check their Facebook pages for dates and times. Or visit the website repaircafevicbc.ca
My item is too heavy to bring to the event. Do you also make house calls?
No, sorry. You can always ask one of the Fixers at the event. Who knows? Maybe somebody would be glad to help you out.
What can I do if my item can’t be fixed?
A handy reference guide is available at the event which directs you on recycling or disposing of many items.
Can I donate items?
Sure, we accept donated tools and supplies. Contact us to find out our specific needs.
