Repair Cafes, like the one held in New Paltz, New York, are part of a global movement aimed at reducing consumerism by encouraging individuals to repair their broken items instead of discarding them. Founded in the Netherlands in 2009, this initiative has expanded to over 59,000 members and 4,000 cafes worldwide, collectively fixing nearly 850,000 items each year. During a recent event in New Paltz, volunteers helped attendees repair a variety of items, including electronics, clothing, and antiques, with 71 out of 85 items successfully fixed. This movement not only promotes sustainability but also fosters community connections. Initiatives like the Buy Nothing Project, which has grown to 12.5 million members, further support this ethos by facilitating the sharing of goods. Additionally, the 'right to repair' movement seeks to empower consumers by advocating for legislation that ensures access to repair tools and instructions. As the culture of disposability continues to dominate, these community-driven efforts highlight the importance of restoring and maintaining items, thereby enriching social ties and preserving valuable skills.