Support Available for Storm-Affected Neighbors
United Way Offers Financial Relief to Families Facing Hardship After August 11th Storms
Northwest Indiana (September 8, 2026) - In the weeks following the devastating August 11 storms that affected communities across our region, United Way Northwest Indiana has been working behind the scenes to secure grant funding and mobilize generous donors to help individuals and families facing financial hardship as they recover.
The storms left thousands of Northwest Indiana residents navigating the consequences of power outages, property damage, temporary housing, disrupted childcare, missed work, and unexpected expenses. While insurance, FEMA, and other forms of assistance may help address some of the immediate costs, many households may still face financial gaps as they work to return to stability.
Through grants and generous contributions from donors who have stepped forward to support storm recovery, United Way Northwest Indiana has established an initial $500,000 in disaster relief funds to support eligible households whose financial circumstances were affected by the August storms.
“Recovery is about more than clearing debris and restoring power. For many families, the financial effects of these storms will continue long after the immediate crisis has passed,” said Chris White, CEO of United Way Northwest Indiana. “We are grateful to the foundations, organizations, and generous donors who have stepped up to make sure our neighbors have somewhere to turn. Our role is to help bridge the gaps that remain.”
The assistance is particularly focused on households that were already working to make ends meet and may now be facing additional financial pressure because of circumstances beyond their control.
White continued, “We know that a missed paycheck, unexpected housing costs, disrupted childcare, or expenses not covered by insurance can create a significant setback for any household.”
Individuals and families who experienced hardship as a result of the August 11 storms are encouraged to visit United Way Northwest Indiana’s Storm Recovery Assistance page at www.unitedwaynwi.org/storm-recovery-assistance, to fill out an eligibility application.
Applications will be reviewed according to program eligibility requirements and available funding. For individuals who may not qualify for this assistance, United Way NWI will work to connect them with other resources and support that may be available.
About United Way Northwest Indiana
United Way Northwest Indiana works to advance the health, opportunity, financial security, and resiliency of communities across Lake, Porter, Jasper, Newton, and Starke counties. By bringing people, organizations, resources, and ideas together, United Way Northwest Indiana works to address community needs and help neighbors build stronger, more stable futures.
In the Times: https://nwitimes.com/news/local/article_545c4129-958b-43e7-9ebf-56dd3bf4a741.html#tracking-source=home-top-story
###