Philippe Morin
Northern News Services
Friday, February 19, 2007

AKLAVIK - Rhoda Kayotuk is a part-time casual relief worker at the Joe Greenland elders' residence in Aklavik.

That's another way of saying she helps out in many ways; sometimes working nights, sometimes helping elders get around, and sometimes working in the kitchen.

At 63, the lifelong resident of Aklavik said she loves working at the centre, where she is one of three casual workers.

She has been working there almost 10 years on and off.

"It's great. I grew up with elders - my grandparents - so I don't mind," she said, adding most residents of Joe Greenland are in their 80s or older.

And thanks to donations from the community, Kayotuk said the elders have plenty of good food to eat.

On Feb. 4, she opened the centre's freezer to reveal whole salmon, muktuk and caribou meat.

The centre's menu also includes bannock, as well as regular staples like ham sandwiches and macaroni.

Kayotuk said the quality of food is important, because it shows the community cares for its elders.

With only seven people living at the residence, she said, working in the kitchen is like cooking for a big family.

And of course, some meals are easier to prepare.

"We don't do anything to the muktuk, just serve it as is, for dipping," she said.