They don’t make ‘em like they used to.
The phrase applies to plenty of things, from clothing to kitchen appliances and everything in between. It’s a side effect of an increasingly capitalistic society that relies on consumers — AKA, us — to purchase replacements when the original breaks.
It’s a problem for many reasons. One is that it’s expensive to constantly be buying new things. Another is that it’s wasteful to throw out as much as we do. After all, junk that ends up in landfills can take hundreds of years to break down.
Repair Exchange Calgary is helping to change that.
Reduce and reuse
Repair Exchange Calgary is a group based out of the Arusha Centre that hosts free community events where citizens can learn how to fix common household items.
Search your home and garage for those busted-up items you haven’t thrown away yet. Then, bring them to a Repair Exchange, where you’ll be paired with a fixer to assess and fix your item. When you’re finished, you can exchange something — be it a recipe, baked good, service, or money — in return. Everyone wins, and your stuff stays out of the landfill.
The ground rules
It’s important to remember that the fixers are volunteers, and that they’re there to help you learn how to fix your item and not just do it for you. And if you need to purchase parts to fix your item, you’re responsible for the cost.
There’s no guarantee your item can be fixed, but it never hurts to try! The types of items Repair Exchange Calgary can help with include small household items like lamps and kitchen appliances, bike tune-ups, and clothing repairs. They also accept old tablets and smartphones to be safely donated.
As for major repairs like large appliances, custom clothing tailoring, vehicle maintenance, and paint jobs, you’ll have to tackle those on your own or with the help of a professional.
The next Repair Exchanges are happening on Aug. 31 at The Hillhurt Sunnyside Community Association, Sept. 18 at the Dalhousie Community Association, and Sept. 20 at Scenic Hills Community Association.
Check out the Repair Exchange Calgary website to find a Repair Exchange near you!
When: Sunday, Aug. 31, 2025
Time: 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Where: 1320 5th Ave. NW, Calgary
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