fRepair's first project!
[Dweller Chad Brosseau spearheads an initiative called fRepair (free-pare) for our neighbors in Burlington. It is a way for us to repair and restore older electronics for folks who need them as part of our North St. mission. If you know of a device that could be restored and given away, email Chad: chad@dwellchurch.org.]
On a rather unassuming day in the beginning of December, I happen to overhear a conversation while browsing at the "Re-store", formerly Recycle North. A man speaking broken English was trying to explain that his laptop wasn't working, while the store attendant was ascertaining that it would cost him around $120 to fix, but they wouldn't be able to do it. I loitered around the store exit until I caught the man and his daughter leaving, and used what little remained of my broken Spanish to have a chat. Ten minutes later, Dwell fRepair had it's first recipient. As Dwell's free repair service for folks in need, we'd been collecting odds and ends to give out as we found that need, but we hadn't actually found a specific need until just then. Marcio, who had been trying to get his computer fixed before going to his custodian job that night, at first didn't quite understand that there was a local church that just wanted to help people fix things... for free. Needless to say, he warmed up to the idea quick!
The actual fix of the computer was quite simple, and it pained me that greater examination had not been taken when first the repair was denied. The gratitude expressed, however, was immeasurable. God help us bless others as we've been blessed!
Here's an explanation for the photos:#1 The Laptop is on the bench.#2 looks like the AC receptacle is unseated - an easy fix!
#3 let's pop the top to get a look.
#4 A few more screws...
#5 Ready for service!
#6 Oh, there's the problem.
#7 They wanted $120 to fix this!
#8 That looks better!
#9 All done!
#10 Our happy recipient, Marcio (back to the top photo!).
zach hoag
