Brothers’ Keeper Breaks Ground on New Homeless Shelter in Gary

The sound of hammers and conversation filled the corner of Washington Street and 22nd Avenue on Friday as dozens of Gary residents gathered to celebrate the groundbreaking of Brothers’ Keeper’s new homeless shelter. The event marked a significant step toward addressing the growing needs of men experiencing homelessness, particularly veterans, in the city.
Issac Mootye, Brothers’ Keeper’s executive director, greeted guests and officials with a smile, expressing deep emotion as he spoke. “I am happy beyond measure,” he said. “I’m really proud of the city of Gary. … Now this dream has become a reality.” For over three decades, Brothers’ Keeper has served men in need, offering clothing, food, overnight shelter, and connections to insurance and other resources. Their longtime location at the northeast corner of 21st Avenue and Broadway has provided 25 overnight beds, operates a food pantry four days a week, serves hot meals, and partners with outside organizations to connect clients with additional services.
As the needs of those they serve outgrew the aging building, community officials stepped in to help the organization. “We are not just breaking ground for a new building; we are breaking ground for hope, healing, and new beginnings,” said Linda Barnes Caldwell, Gary Common Council president. “This project reflects our shared belief that every person deserves dignity, safety, opportunity, and a chance to rebuild their life.”
Last year, city officials began discussing sustainable, high-impact ways to spend the remaining American Rescue Plan Act funds. Those conversations led to a proposal to build a new Brothers’ Keeper shelter about a block from the organization’s current location. “This is going to be the first brand-new structure that the city of Gary is being a part of developing,” Mayor Eddie Melton said. “We are setting the stage for new growth and development, but we have to make sure we take care of the most vulnerable population in the city.”
The city has committed $3 million to the project, including $700,000 in American Rescue Plan Act funding and more than $2 million in Community Development Block Grant money. Other faith-based organizations in the community are raising money to help furnish the facility, including appliances, bedding, and other needed items, Melton stated. “Expanding our services to serve our homeless population is very critical,” he said.
The new two-story building is expected to double the shelter’s capacity from 25 beds to 50. In addition to expanded dormitory space, the building will include counseling offices, interview and conference rooms, multipurpose community space, storage areas, a larger kitchen, and an urban garden. These additions reflect a commitment to not only providing shelter but also fostering long-term solutions and community engagement. As the project moves forward, it stands as a testament to the power of collective action and the importance of caring for the most vulnerable among us, as Proverbs 31:8-9 reminds us to speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves.

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