Gary’s New Shelter for the Homeless: A Commitment to Community

Gary Mayor Eddie Melton has consistently shown his dedication to the city’s revival. As Gary works towards reducing blight and attracting new businesses, Melton emphasized the importance of supporting the city’s most vulnerable residents. On Friday, August 7, 2026, Melton stood alongside other city officials to mark the beginning of construction for a new Brothers’ Keeper men’s shelter in Gary.

Isaac Mootye, director of the Brothers’ Keeper shelter, spoke at the groundbreaking ceremony for this new facility. He highlighted the importance of expanding services to the homeless population. Melton reiterated this sentiment, noting that the new shelter is a step in that direction.

City officials and shelter representatives gathered to break ground on a $3 million structure funded by the American Rescue Plan Act and Community Development Block Grant funds. The new shelter will stand in the 2100 block of Washington Street. In compliance with grant requirements, the facility must open by the end of October.

The new shelter will be a two-story building dedicated to homeless men and veterans in Gary. Improvements include dormitory-style housing, counseling offices, and multi-purpose community spaces. It will accommodate 50 residents, doubling the capacity of the existing shelter at Broadway Avenue. The current location’s community garden, a popular feature, will be relocated near the new building.

City spokesman Steve Segura described Friday’s event as the start of a new chapter and urged residents to participate in the community’s progress. He likened the partnership between Brothers’ Keeper and the city to steelmaking, emphasizing their combined strength.

Linda Barnes-Caldwell, Gary Common Council President, expressed her pride for the city and the efforts of Brothers’ Keeper officials. The groundbreaking symbolized hope, healing, and fresh starts for the community.

The ceremony was also an emotional moment for Isaac Mootye, who thanked the city for its support in realizing this project. “This dream is becoming a reality,” he said, overwhelmed with pride and gratitude.

Barnes-Caldwell highlighted the broader significance of the shelter, noting that the project embodies dignity, safety, and opportunity for those in need. She reminded those present that the shelter is more than just a building; it’s a commitment to rebuilding lives, instilling hope, and promising brighter futures for Gary.