Mayor Eddie Melton and Gary Common Council Announce $3 Million Transformation of Brothers’ Keeper Shelter

‍GARY, Ind. — Mayor Eddie Melton and the Gary Common Council joined forces to announce a comprehensive plan to construct a new, modern facility for Brothers’ Keeper, the city’s longstanding shelter for homeless men and veterans.

The project, backed by a $3 million initial investment from American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) and Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funds, will relocate the shelter from its aging Broadway location to a new site at 2196–2160 Washington Street. Construction is targeted to begin in June 2026, with a goal of welcoming the first residents by the end of October 2026.

“For decades, Brothers’ Keeper has done the Lord’s work in difficult conditions, offering a lifeline to men in our community,” said Mayor Eddie Melton. “This project is more than just bricks and mortar; it is about restoring dignity. We are moving fast to ensure that by next winter, our men have a safe, modern, and healing environment to get back on their feet.”

To expedite the project, Mayor Melton and Council President Linda Barnes-Caldwell of the 5th District have co-authored an ordinance establishing the funding and framework for the new center. The ordinance will be introduced to the Common Council tomorrow, February 3, for its first and second readings.

“This facility is coming to the 5th District because we understand that strong communities take care of their own,” said Council President Barnes-Caldwell. “I am proud to co-author this legislation to give Brothers’ Keeper a permanent, high-quality home that offers not just a bed, but a path forward.”

The approved $3 million base budget covers site work and a two-story core facility featuring:

• Dormitory-style housing and counseling offices.

• Interview rooms and multi-purpose community spaces.

• Energy-efficient climate control and essential security systems.

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Central to the success of this transformation is a broad coalition of supporters. The City of Gary will be partnering with various groups from our non-profit and faith-based community partners to ensure the facility meets the diverse needs of its residents.

Additionally, a key component of the new shelter is the preservation and enhancement of the adjacent Urban Garden. The administration plans to work closely with the Gary Food Council to integrate the garden into the shelter’s programming, serving as a therapeutic and vocational green space.

“Having the shelter and the garden side-by-side represents the full picture of what we are trying to build—nourishment for the body and the spirit,” said Pastor Mike Dotson of the neighboring Washington Street Church of God. “To see a modern sanctuary for our men rising up next to ground that feeds our neighbors is a blessing that will lift the entire community.”

While the city has secured the initial investment, the goal is to reach a “Stretch Budget” of $4 million to transform the shelter into a comprehensive resource center.

To bridge this gap, the City is partnering with the Legacy Foundation to establish a dedicated fund to raise an additional $500,000 specifically to help furnish the new facility. This capital campaign (with a reach goal of $1 million) will unlock critical "alternates" currently outside the base scope, including:

• A Medical/Wellness area for visiting nurses and mental health practitioners.

• A Job Training Lab equipped with vocational technology.

• Hospital-grade air filtration and industrial kitchen equipment.

• Enhanced security and a landscaped courtyard.

Community members, corporate partners, and philanthropic organizations are invited to support the project through the Legacy Foundation. Giving levels will be linked to tangible capital items, such as “Sponsoring a Bed” or funding the “Wellness Area.”

“For nearly 40 years, we have served this city with faith and limited resources,” said Isaac Mootye, Executive Director of Brothers’ Keeper. “This new facility changes everything. It gives us the tools to not just house men, but to heal them. We are asking the community to join us in this final push to build the facility our residents deserve.”

Project Timeline

• February 3, 2026: Press Conference & Ordinance Reading

• April 2026: Design Finalization

• June 2026: Groundbreaking

• October 2026: Scheduled Completion

For more information, or to donate, Click here.

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About the City of Gary The City of Gary is committed to revitalization, economic growth, and improving the quality of life for all residents. Under the leadership of Mayor Eddie Melton, the city is focused on strengthening neighborhoods, enhancing public safety, and driving sustainable development.

About Brother’s Keeper, Inc. Brothers’ Keeper is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization that has served the Gary community since 1986. It provides temporary housing, food, and clothing to homeless men and veterans, helping them transition toward self-sufficiency.

Contact:
Steve Segura, Chief Communications Officer
City of Gary
stsegura@gary.gov

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