Gary Moves Forward with New Shelter to Support Vulnerable Populations

Gary Mayor Eddie Melton remains committed to the city’s resurgence. During his leadership, the city has focused on reducing blight and attracting new businesses. On Friday, he emphasized the importance of supporting Gary’s most vulnerable groups. He spoke at a groundbreaking ceremony for Brothers’ Keeper’s new shelter facilities.

“Expanding our services to serve our homeless population is critical,” Melton stated as construction continued on the new Brothers’ Keeper shelter. “This is an example of that today.”

City officials and shelter representatives began construction for a new $3 million Brothers’ Keeper facility. The construction, already in progress, marked a ceremonial start on Friday. The new shelter will be situated in the 2100 block of Washington Street. Funding comes from the American Rescue Plan Act and Community Development Block Grant funds. The unallocated ARPA funds were directed towards the shelter last year. According to Post-Tribune records, the project needs completion by the end of October to meet Block Grant requirements.

The new structure will provide two stories dedicated to homeless men and veterans. It will feature dormitory-style housing, counseling offices, and community spaces. The facility will include 50 beds, doubling the capacity from the previous shelter at 2120 Broadway. The community garden, currently beside the existing shelter, will relocate to the new site.

Steve Segura, City Spokesman, described Friday as a new beginning and a community call to action. He likened the collaboration between Brothers’ Keeper and the city to steelmaking, highlighting their combined strength.

A single beam of steel is strong on its own, Segura noted, but when those beams are connected, they support massive structures, weathering any storm.

Executive Director Isaac Mootye expressed deep gratitude during the groundbreaking, acknowledging the support from city officials. “I’m beyond happy, very emotional,” Mootye shared. “This dream is becoming a reality.”

Linda Barnes Caldwell, Gary Common Council President, also voiced her pride in Gary and Brother’s Keeper’s efforts. She viewed the groundbreaking as a significant step towards hope and renewal.

This project reflects our shared belief that every person deserves dignity, safety, opportunity, and a chance to rebuild their lives, Barnes Caldwell said. This facility is more than brick and mortar. It symbolizes compassion and a promise to build a stronger Gary. As we break ground today, we lay the foundation not only for a new building but for restored lives, hope, and brighter futures.