The City of Long Beach is encouraging residents to learn how to repair their household items during a new series of free workshops launching in February.
“We are committed to reducing waste and creating a healthier, more vibrant city for everyone,” Mayor Rex Richardson said in a public statement. “Through these Fixit Clinics, we are helping our residents breathe new life into their broken household items and fostering a more sustainable Long Beach by equipping our community with valuable knowledge and skills that they can take home with them.”
During the upcoming Fixit Clinics, volunteer coaches will guide attendees through repairing broken items.
This initiative aims to reduce waste and promote sustainability. The City organized the upcoming workshops with the help of the Pedal Movement, Long Beach Reuses Coalition, Long Beach Time Exchange and other local organizations.
Participants can get help fixing their electronics, bicycles, watches, jewelry, toys, clothes, small appliances and other portable items during these workshops. Even if an item cannot be fixed, attendees will gain valuable hands-on problem-solving skills during these sessions.
“Our Fixit Clinics are an incredible opportunity for Long Beach residents to come together, learn valuable repair skills, and contribute to a more sustainable community,” Director of Public Works Eric Lopez said in a public statement. “By repairing household items instead of discarding them, we not only reduce waste and protect our environment but also empower our neighbors to take an active role in building a greener future for Long Beach.”
The first Fixit Clinic will take place on Saturday, Feb. 8 from noon to 3 p.m. at local business Sports Basement (2100 N. Bellflower Blvd.). More clinics will be held at various locations throughout Long Beach. Dates and locations for all the workshops will be shared with the public over the next few weeks.
The City is also seeking volunteers with repair skills to serve as Fixit coaches. Those interested in volunteering or pre-registering as a participant can visit lbcity.info/fixitclinics. Since Fixit Clinics operate on a first-come, first-served basis, pre-registration helps streamline the check-in process but does not guarantee a spot.
In 2014, Long Beach hosted three Fixit Clinics in collaboration with Los Angeles County Public Works and community organizations. The events drew over 50 attendees per event and repaired nearly 1,000 pounds of household items, according to the City.
