Gary Mayor Eddie Melton has shown a consistent commitment to the city’s revival during his time in office. As the city tackles blight and attracts new businesses, he emphasized the importance of supporting Gary’s vulnerable populations. During the groundbreaking ceremony for a new Brothers’ Keeper men’s shelter, Melton stated, “Expanding our services to serve our homeless population is very critical.”
On Friday, city officials and representatives from the shelter began work on a new $3 million facility. Construction of the shelter, located in the 2100 block of Washington Street, had already started when the city held the ceremonial groundbreaking. The project is funded by the American Rescue Plan Act and Community Development Block Grant funds. Melton mentioned that last year, city officials decided to allocate remaining ARPA funds to the shelter. To meet the grant’s guidelines, the shelter must open by the end of October.
The new two-story shelter will serve homeless men and veterans in Gary. Upgrades include dormitory-style housing, counseling offices, and multi-purpose community spaces. Capacity will increase to 50 beds from the current 25. The existing facility is at 2120 Broadway, where its community garden will relocate near the new building.
City Spokesman Steve Segura hailed the groundbreaking as the start of a new chapter and urged community involvement. He likened the collaboration between Brothers’ Keeper and Gary to steelmaking, emphasizing mutual strength.
Executive Director Isaac Mootye expressed deep emotion at the ceremony, thanking city officials and expressing pride in Gary. “This dream is becoming a reality,” he said. Gary Common Council President Linda Barnes Caldwell echoed this sentiment, describing the day as a groundbreaking for hope and new beginnings. She affirmed the project’s reflection of values like dignity and opportunity.
“This facility is more than brick and mortar. It represents compassion and a commitment to building a stronger Gary,” Barnes Caldwell remarked. “As we break ground today, let us remember that we are laying the foundation, not only for a new building, but for restored lives, hope, and brighter futures.”
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