Reuse Rendezvous encouraging residents to pay it forward

By Lethbridge Herald on September 10, 2022.

The 10th annual Reuse Rendezvous runs today through Sunday.

Hosted by Environment Lethbridge, Reuse Rendezvous was created by the City of Lethbridge in 2011 as a way for residents to give away unwanted gently used items to friends and neighbours.

“Reuse Rendezvous is the perfect opportunity to declutter and pass on items that you no longer need,” said Kathleen Sheppard, executive director with Environment Lethbridge. “It’s also a great opportunity to find new-to-you treasures. For students returning for the fall semester, it’s the perfect way to furnish an apartment or dorm room.”

Reuse Rendezvous continues to grow. In 2015, 165 households were registered, and the last few years have consistently seen between 400-500 households register. Although it is difficult to accurately determine the amount of items that are exchanged during Reuse Rendezvous, survey results estimate that over 1,400 boxes of smaller items and nearly 750 larger items, such as furniture, were given away in 2018.

Reuse Rendezvous participants are also asked to be mindful of best practices around COVID-19, including maintaining social distancing.

Established in 2012, Environment Lethbridge inspires and equips people to create widespread community action and engagement towards sustainability. Environment Lethbridge is always looking to involve the community in the work it does. Community members and anyone who wishes to volunteer are encouraged to contact Environment Lethbridge through their website at http://www.environmentlethbridge.ca.