Gary Mayor Eddie Melton has made his commitment to the city’s comeback increasingly evident through his tenure.
But, as the city continues to eliminate blight and bring in new businesses, he said Friday that it’s important to take care of Gary’s most vulnerable populations.
“Expanding our services to serve our homeless population is very critical,” Melton said, standing in front of ongoing construction for a new Brothers’ Keeper shelter. “This is an example of that today.”
On Friday, city officials and shelter representatives broke ground on a new $3 million facility for the new Brothers’ Keeper shelter. Construction had already begun, Melton said, and the city’s groundbreaking was ceremonious. The new shelter will be located in the 2100 block of Washington Street.
According to Gary officials, the new development is funded by American Rescue Plan Act funds and Community Development Block Grant funds. Melton said Friday that city officials decided last year to put remaining ARPA funds towards the shelter.
In order to meet Community Development Block Grant guidelines, according to Post-Tribune archives, the shelter needs to open by the end of October.
The new shelter will be two stories and dedicated to Gary’s homeless men and veterans.
Upgrades include dormitory-style housing, counseling offices and multi-purpose community spaces. The new building will have 50 shelter beds, an increase from 25 at its existing facility.
The current shelter is located at 2120 Broadway. Its popular community garden, next to the current shelter, will be moved near its new building, Melton previously said.
City Spokesman Steve Segura said Friday was the celebration of the start of a new chapter and a call to action for residents. He compared the partnership between Brothers’ Keeper and the city to steelmaking, saying they’re stronger together.
“A single beam of steel is strong on its own,” Segura said, “but when those beams are connected, intertwined or bolted together into a framework, they support massive structures, weathering any storm.”
Executive Director Issaac Mootye was overwhelmed with emotions at Friday’s groundbreaking. He thanked city officials for their help with a new facility, saying he’s proud of Gary.
“I’m beyond happy, very emotional,” Mootye said. “This dream is becoming a reality.”
Gary Common Council President Linda Barnes Caldwell, D-5th, also expressed her pride for the city and Brother’s Keeper officials. She said that Friday was a groundbreaking for hope, healing and new beginnings.
“This project reflects our shared belief that every person deserves dignity, safety, opportunity and a change to rebuild their lives,” Barnes Caldwell said. “This facility is more than brick and mortar. It represents compassion and a commitment to building a stronger Gary. 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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