In the wake of the summer storms battering Northwest Indiana, organizations like Humane Indiana Wildlife and Haven House have been addressing challenges such as power outages, fallen trees, and structural damage. Recent storms caused by severe rains and winds have taken a toll on these nonprofits.
Impact on Humane Indiana Wildlife
The Humane Indiana Wildlife Rehabilitation and Education Center in Valparaiso initially remained unscathed during the storms but faced damage during the final wave. According to Nicole Harmon, senior director of the center, about 18 trees fell, and there was damage to two of the center’s enclosures. Harmon noted that the center occupies 28 acres, of which four acres house enclosures and office spaces. Around 18 enclosures are used for pre-release wildlife animals.
Despite the destruction, staff ensured the safety of all animals on site. They monitored 110 animals outdoors and 400 indoors without reporting any injuries or additional damage until the last storm hit.
“Only the last storm from Lake Michigan harmed us,” Harmon reported. Staff responded swiftly to evaluate and secure the property, noting that the damaged enclosures were vacant at the time since animals like foxes and raccoons had already been released.
Challenges During the Power Outage
On Monday, the facility lost power around 4:30 p.m., not regaining it until 2 a.m. Wednesday. Being situated in an unincorporated area, this blackout also meant a loss of water access. Staff utilized headlamps and water jugs to continue animal care. A community member donated a generator, ensuring freezers and refrigerators remained operational.
“The inconvenience was remarkable, yet things could have been worse,” Harmon commented. The center’s phone and internet service remained down as of Thursday, with social media being the primary communication method with the public.
“We are still operational and taking in animals affected by the storm. Their need for care is timely,” Harmon asserted.
Haven House Faces Structural Challenges
Besides dealing with immediate impacts, other nonprofits like the Haven House are managing longer-term effects. The domestic violence shelter will soon meet a general contractor about repairing the historic building after a parkway tree collapse and subsequent storm damage in June.
The contractor’s assessment will determine if restoration is feasible as the continuous rain caused further damage, noted Haven House Board President Jennifer Winker. “Our goal to restore goes on despite the hurdles because the initial insurance only covered the roof,” Winker explained.
Meanwhile, the shelter has placed families in temporary housing while remaining operational and continuing to assist clients. “Though there was initial confusion, we remain active. We are grateful for ongoing donations. Should the house become unsalvageable, we have contingency plans,” Winker affirmed.
Community engagement remains vital, with updates available through social media and their website.
Article by Michelle L. Quinn for the Post-Tribune.
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