MENU
GARY, IN. – The City of Gary received welcome news this evening as President Donald Trump approved a Major Disaster Declaration for Indiana, unlocking critical federal resources through the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to help communities recover from the devastating storms and flooding that impacted our region. With Lake County approved for both Individual Assistance and Public Assistance, this declaration opens the door to critical federal recovery resources for eligible residents and households, as well as support for local government and public infrastructure.
Mayor Eddie Melton celebrated the announcement and expressed gratitude to the leaders whose efforts helped secure this vital assistance for Gary residents and communities across northwest Indiana.
"Tonight is a tremendous victory for the people of Gary and for communities throughout northwest Indiana. On behalf of our city, I want to thank President Trump for approving this disaster declaration within 24 hours of my call with the President, and ensuring that federal resources will be available to residents, families, businesses, and local governments working to recover from these historic storms."
Mayor Melton first recognized Governor Mike Braun for his leadership and unwavering commitment to securing relief for Indiana communities.
"I want to first thank Governor Mike Braun for his extraordinary leadership, determination, and advocacy throughout this process. Governor Braun worked tirelessly to ensure that Hoosier communities received the help they deserve, and his efforts were instrumental in making tonight's announcement possible. When our residents needed a champion, Governor Braun stepped forward and fought to deliver results."
Mayor Melton also praised Senator Jim Banks for his partnership and leadership in helping move the declaration forward.
"I am deeply grateful to Senator Jim Banks for his leadership and commitment to the people of Indiana. Senator Banks authored the letter supporting this disaster declaration, coordinated the call that elevated the needs of impacted communities directly to federal decision-makers, and helped move this request forward with remarkable urgency. The fact that this declaration was signed within 24 hours of that call demonstrates what can happen when leaders work together and refuse to stop fighting for the people they represent."
"I also want to thank Congressman Frank Mrvan for his continued support," said Mayor Melton. "I look forward to working with him to educate the public on what this means and how this will benefit them as we navigate the recovery process."
Looking ahead, Mayor Melton emphasized the city's resilience and path forward:
"This declaration means more help for our residents, more resources for our neighborhoods, and more tools to move Gary’s recovery forward. Our city has faced challenges before, and time and again, the people of Gary have shown their resilience and determination. This federal support will help us rebuild, strengthen our infrastructure, and make sure our residents have the support they need to recover. We are grateful for the partnership that helped get us here, and we will continue working together to build a stronger, safer and more prosperous Gary."
"Tonight's announcement is about more than recovery. It is about hope. It is about progress. It is about ensuring that our residents have the support they need to rebuild and thrive. Every investment in our future moves us one step closer to the city we know Gary can become."
"Together, we will rebuild. Together, we will recover. Together, we will continue building a stronger, safer, and more prosperous city. And together, we will continue writing the greatest comeback story in American history."
Media Contact:
Office of the Mayor
City of Gary
401 Broadway
Gary, Indiana 46402
www.gary.gov
+++
