On Wednesday afternoon, more than 70 volunteers gathered at Haven Hollow Park in Portage Township. Armed with tarps, bottled water, flashlights, charcoal, diapers, hygiene supplies, toys, children’s books, hot meals, and snacks, they were ready to help those affected by the severe derecho that struck Northwest Indiana on August 11.
Pat Greek from the South Haven Lions Club was seen chatting with recipient Patti Burton as she distributed food. The Portage Township Trustee’s Office organized the recovery event, providing essential supplies to residents still reeling from the damage left by the storm. The storm unleashed straight-line winds at 99 mph, damaging trees, utility poles, homes, and power lines, along with heavy rain.
By the end of the day on August 25, NIPSCO aims to restore power across Portage and Gary, as per their website. As cars lined up at Haven Hollow Park around 4:10 p.m., volunteers began loading vehicles with supplies. Trustee Brendan Clancy rallied the volunteers, and within two hours, around 230 families received assistance.
“All right, who’s ready? Let’s do this!”
Despite many volunteers, including Clancy, lacking power themselves, they focused on helping others. Some families, able to return home but short on food, were grateful for the support. Roadblocks included obstructed driveways from fallen trees, and the need to refrigerate medication and power medical devices.
Clancy noted that within 24 hours post-storm, the Bonner Senior Center transformed into an emergency shelter. With support from the Porter County Emergency Management Agency, they provided cots, bedding, toys, movies, and popcorn for families. During this period, the center served more than 570 meals and offered 152 overnight stays.
Further support came from Ohio County, which sent over water, sports drinks, and diapers. Trustee Brendan Clancy emphasized the community’s teamwork as they dealt with the pressing needs of residents.
“It’s not about Portage Township government. It’s about the community and everybody coming together.”
– Trustee Brendan Clancy
Patti Burton, a retiree, was among the first in line to receive essential items like tarps and diapers. Though her home flooded and needed a generator, she appreciated the community’s kindness and spent her days managing expenses for fuel and food.
American Legion Post 502 member Kirt Raisor personally delivered supplies to those unable to reach the park. Another member, Ruben Mendez, ensured hot meals like hot dogs, pulled pork, and sloppy joes were available. He emphasized that food is the current priority because “if you don’t have power, you don’t have food.”
Kayla Chavez, nearby resident, attended with her young daughters. Recently regaining power, her household faced food shortages. The event offered them not only supplies but also an opportunity to play and socialize.