NEENAH, Wis. (WFRV) – The Repair Cafe popped-up at the Neenah Public Library on Saturday, making its third appearance since November.
The Repair Cafe is a community-based event where people can bring broken or damaged items, such as clothes, electronics, small appliances, furniture, and more, and get help repairing them for free.
Adopted originally from Europe, Repair Cafes are starting to be popularized throughout the United States.
Amanda Zehren, the Hostess of Neenah’s Repair Cafe, expressed her enthusiasm for the pop-up.
“When I found out people can come in and bring in their broken items from home and have them fixed for free, I was like ‘oh my gosh, it brings the community together.'” Said Zehren.
The event has grown since its first gathering, with volunteers skilled in everything from computer repairs to sewing, jewelry fixing, and small engine maintenance.
Kali Pizzo, a computer repair technician, emphasized the importance of digital literacy and education.
“It’s not so much that the device is broken, it’s misunderstood,” Pizzo said. “If they’re missing a component and able to put that piece into place, [that may] empower people to be able to use the technology that they bought.”
The Repair Cafe also fosters a sense of community. Mehta Hess, Adult Services Manager at Neenah Public Library, explained that the event is not just about fixing broken items but also about creating connections.
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“Our goal is to build that community,” Hess said. “Getting people together and finding ways to further their knowledge.”
Through the Repair Cafe, Neenah residents are not only fixing broken items but also fostering a sense of shared responsibility for the planet, saving money, and building stronger community ties.
