Kevin Wilson
Northern News Services

Gjoa Haven (Oct 22/01) - Slowly but surely, a new day care facility in Gjoa Haven is attracting a clientele.

It would be easier if the kids would stop getting sick, says manager Helen Kaloon.

"We've had more kids, but you know how it is with illness," she says.

Currently home to four morning and four afternoon occupants, the Nutarganut Pairivik Society Daycare opened at the end of August. The day care got a big boost recently when Commissioner Peter Irniq stopped by to see how things were going.

"It's always nice to get visitors," said Kaloon, adding that the staff keeps trying to stay ready for unexpected drop-ins.

It's the first time that Gjoa Haven has had a day-care centre. The facility has space for four infants and 16 preschoolers.

"We're really happy with it," says Kaloon of the spacious new facility, which was funded by the Kitikmeot Economic Development Commission.

Gjoa Haven's mayor, Joseph Aglukkaq, said the day care is, "something the community has pushed about for a long time."

He added that while he's pleased to have the centre is up and running, he'd like to see the territorial government subsidize a few spaces.

"The cost of living is extremely high here, and the centre is very expensive too."