In COVID-19 measure, Gjoa Haven bans sale of homemade baked goods

The Hamlet of Gjoa Haven is restricting the sale of homemade baked goods in the western Nunavut community to curb the possible spread of COVID-19.

The hamlet council decided on April 9 to pass a resolution that restricts the sale of baked goods between households in the community during the COVID-19 pandemic.

“This action is one of the many steps that council has taken to help stop the COVID-19 virus from coming and spreading rapidly into our community and is part of our efforts to save lives that may otherwise be in jeopardy,” the hamlet said in a public service announcement.

The sale of homemade cakes like these in Gjoa Haven is no longer possible after the hamlet council recently passed a resolution prohibiting the sale of baked goods in the community. (Photo from Gjoa Haven/Sell-Swap Facebook page)

Other bans linked to COVID-19 in Nunavut communities include a ban on alcohol in Cambridge Bay and one on “house gambling” in Kugaaruk.

Gjoa Haven has also stopped all public gatherings, including those on an outdoor skating rink, which attracted too many youth.

In collaboration with the local wellness centre, the hamlet has also helped to organize trivia contests and bingo on the local radio.

The hamlet has made posters about COVID-19 and how to prevent its spread and delivered these to homes, along with cleaning supplies.

As in other Nunavut communities, self-isolation has been encouraged, although many units in this community of about 1,400 remain chronically overcrowded: a recent housing needs assessment pegged Gjoa Haven’s housing needs as the fourth highest of all communities in Nunavut.