The non-profit community workshop Diyode has come up with a unique way to help pay the bills during the COVID-19 crisis.
Diyode is an 10-year-old membership-centric community workshop located on Dufferin Street that shares knowledge, space and tools, ranging from circular saws to 3D printers.
There is a wood shop, metal shop and electronics area, plus craft spaces.
"These times have forced us to close except for essential services to our members and the community," said Diyode's Angus Gray.
Funded through membership and with the help of some sponsors, Diyode has turned to a unique t-shirt to help raise funds to pay for the space when the space is closed.
"I came up with the idea as a way to help us and the community come together to buy local, support each other, and show our community pride," Gray said.
"I believe after this crisis is over we will all have a new sense of community and what is genuinely important."
Shirts are $20$ with all profits going to maintain Diyode's rent through the crisis.
To purchase a shirt email e-transfers to [email protected] and include size, colour and address.
For shirts ordered by Guelph residents, arrangements will be made to drop them on front porches.
Gray, who is president of Diyode, madethe screen for the shirts by hand but the project is supported by the entire board of directors.
"We have all been struggling with how to show our support and this was one small way to show our pride and promote physically distancing while still remaining a community," Gray said.
Some members have been using the shop to make essential emergency supplies via 3D printing and sewing.
"Every day, I'm impressed by our members' creativity and ingenuity, and how committed they are to making Guelph a better place for all who live here," Gray said.
