Five Nunavut communities will soon have vans to transport Elders. 

Premier P.J. Akeeagok made the announcement on Oct. 11 as part of the Government of NunavutSA国际影视传媒檚 Katujjiluta mandate priority that focuses on aging with dignity.

Either already on the ground or expected to arrive this fall via sealift, the vans will provide Elders with improved mobility and access to community and government services in Iqaluit, Cambridge Bay, Coral Harbour, Pangnirtung and Rankin Inlet.

SA国际影视传媒淲e heard Elders loud and clear: access to reliable transportation to health appointments, the grocery store and events is an issue that impacts aging Nunavummiut,SA国际影视传媒� said Akeeagok. SA国际影视传媒淭hese mobility vans will improve the lives of Elders by giving them the means to get to where they need to go safely. I look forward to seeing this initiative expanded to more communities across Nunavut.SA国际影视传媒�

Last May, the Department of Executive and Intergovernmental Affairs called for expressions of interest from territorial, regional or community organizations that had the capacity and ability to administer the Elder van initiative. After a June information session, four groups submitted proposals.

A selection committee of senior officials chose a group led by Northern Future Skills Development, which has partnered with Arctic Training Ltd. and Caribou Cabs to offer the service. 

The vans are hoped serve a dual purpose in each community, both as a way for Elders to get around and for communities to gain more skilled drivers.