Seniors' van finally in full-time
Darrell Greer
Northern News Services
Rankin Inlet (Feb 07/01) - A long struggle to provide a needed service to Rankin elders appears to be finally over.
The Pulaarvik Kablu Friendship Centre has received funding to get the Seniors' Van back in operation helping local elders get around.
The centre's May Cameron says being able to provide such a valuable service to community elders was well worth the effort it took to get the service back up and running.
"The service is operating full-steam ahead, from 9 a.m. until 9 p.m., except for Saturday and Sunday when we have more restricted hours," says Cameron.
"The only other times the van is not available to elders is during our school runs at lunchtime (11:45 am to 1 p.m.) and dismissal time (3:15 to 4 p.m.)."
Cameron says the funding was provided through Community Development (federal money funnelled through the hamlet).
She says a local committee decides which proposals will be granted funding through the program.
The Friendship Centre is currently using three drivers for the Seniors' Van and two regular bus drivers.
Cameron says that will eventually be pared to one full-time and one part-time driver.
The Community Development funding covers the drivers' salaries and a small portion of fuel and maintenance costs.
Cameron says employees at the Friendship Centre feel good about being able to finally provide the service full time to help elders get to doctor and dentist appointments, shopping, banking and other errands.
She says the response from seniors in the community has been almost overwhelming.
"They are just so happy the service is available again, it's almost unbelievable. They love the van. They're thrilled and excited about the service."
Cameron says the van is equipped with a telephone so those who require its services can call the driver directly at 645-2488, rather than having to go through a middle person.
"When the van's not running nobody answers the phone, so the system isn't confusing for anybody.
"We're very pleased with how the operation has gone so far."
