Mayor Melton and Senator Banks Talk with President Trump Regarding Federal Disaster Assistance

GARY, INDIANA — In a determined push to secure federal disaster assistance, Mayor Eddie D. Melton met today with U.S. Senator Jim Banks to coordinate ongoing recovery efforts following the severe storms that caused significant damage across the City of Gary.

Mayor Melton also spoke directly with President Donald J. Trump by phone to personally advocate for the immediate authorization of federal disaster funds needed to accelerate Gary’s recovery and restoration efforts.

To assess the damage firsthand, Senator Banks joined city officials on a comprehensive tour of impacted areas throughout the city. During his visit, he also met with residents affected by the storms who are receiving emergency assistance at the Hudson Campbell storm relief shelter.

Recognizing the urgent need for a strong federal response, Senator Banks has authored a formal letter to President Trump requesting the immediate release of critical Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) funding for Gary. The appeal has been strengthened by the bipartisan support of 10 additional members of Indiana’s Congressional Delegation, who have also signed the letter to the White House.

“The devastation our city has experienced demands swift, decisive and unified action at every level of government,” said Mayor Eddie D. Melton. “I am grateful to Senator Banks for coming to Gary, seeing the damage firsthand, meeting with our residents and taking action on their behalf. In my conversation with President Trump, I made it clear that Gary needs immediate access to FEMA resources to support our recovery. This federal assistance is critical to restoring our neighborhoods, rebuilding our community and making sure Gary emerges from this storm stronger and more resilient than before.”

The City of Gary will continue working closely with federal, state and local partners to secure the resources necessary to support residents, restore critical infrastructure and move the community forward.

About the City of Gary:

The City of Gary, Indiana, is committed to fostering economic growth, community resilience, and a high quality of life for all residents under the leadership of Mayor Eddie D. Melton. For more information on city initiatives and emergency services, please visit www.gary.gov.

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

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