If you’ve got broken furniture, jewelry, bicycles, toys or small appliances, don’t throw them out quite yet.
Long Beach, alongside various partner organizations, will host a Fixit Clinic in April aimed at teaching residents how to repair and mend their damaged items — rather than throwing them in the trash.
The free event will take place at noon April 25 at the Michelle Obama Neighborhood Library, 5870 Atlantic Ave.
The city initially launched its Fixit Clinic event series in 2024 as part of its Climate Action and Adaptation Plan, and to date, the program has helped 301 residents repair 223 household items, according to a recent news release, and kept 3,170 pounds of those items out of local landfills.
During the April clinic, Fixit coaches will guide attendees through the process of repairing whatever item they decide to bring in for fixing. Residents can bring any single item to the clinic that is small enough to carry in — excluding smart TVs, cell phones, tablets, computer software, Mac or Apple products, printers, electronic screens or large appliances.
“The clinics emphasize hands-on learning and community connection,” the city said. “Even if repairs are not successful, residents will gain valuable insight into how their items function and how to troubleshoot future issues.”
The clinics are volunteer-led, and several organizations — including Algalita Marine Research and Education, Pedal Movement, Long Beach Time Exchange and the LB Reuses Coalition — will help out with the April event.
April’s Fixit Clinic is free and open to residents of all ages, but minors must be accompanied by an adult. It’s also not a drop-off service — you’ll be expected to stick around during the repair and help out with the process.
The city also plans to host additional Fixit Clinics around Long Beach in the future. Details about those will be released in the coming weeks.
Reservations aren’t required, but they are recommended. And if you’re handy, you can also sign up to volunteer as a Fixit Clinic coach. To sign up, visit lbcity.info/fixitclinics.