After a storm moved through Merrillville on June 11, the community mobilized to help those affected. The Andrean High School campus was one place hit especially hard.
Tonn and Blank Construction was one of the organizations that mobilized within hours to help the school. A crew of 38 team members worked through the weekend to clean up and start the recovery process.
“Within hours of the devastating storm damage at Andrean High School, our team was onsite working alongside school leadership and restoration partners to secure the building and begin recovery efforts,” according to Tonn and Blank Construction's LinkedIn page. “Through the weekend, crews worked to protect the campus and help chart the path forward.”
The Diocese of Gary and the Big Shoulders Fund also were onsite to assess the damage and stabilize the site.
“Andrean leadership met with representatives from Big Shoulders Fund, the Diocese of Gary and Tonn and Blank Construction to discuss damage assessments, potential timelines and next steps for our school community,” said Jaycob Knazur, principal of Andrean High School, in a press release.
An EF-2 tornado tore though the community as reported by NBC5 Chicago. Trees and power lines were down. Roofs were damaged. And broken glass was everywhere, making it hazardous for those trying to help. More than 200 buildings were damaged in Merrillville alone, according to State Rep. Vernon Smith (D-Gary). Smith also called on the governer to declare a natural disaster.
NIPSCO reported that 61,900 customers were without power as of June 11, following two violent storm cells. NIPSCO deployed all its available crews and other resources. As of June 16, the Town of Merrillville reported that power was restored to many areas in northern Merrillville.
Like NIPSCO, Tonn and Blank Construction often is called on to help recovery efforts in emergencies. Their crews have a reputation of showing up when most needed — even nights, weekends and holidays.
The Michigan City-based company has dedicated teams that help clean up, stabilize and repair properties when storms cause damage.
“We step up when our community needs it, and that exemplifies the values that make Tonn and Blank such a special company,” said Jon Gilmore, president and CEO. “Our coworkers selflessly give their time and talents to help others when they need it most. In the midst of a crisis, you can always count on a yellow Tonn and Blank truck showing up to help when it’s needed most.”
The Salvation Army also was on hand to distribute water, snacks and other supplies. Donate to their efforts here. The American Red Cross set up a 700-bed shelter at the Lincoln Center in Highland.
Andrean High School officials request that all donations to the recovery efforts be made here. Also visit the Town of Merrillville's tornado recovery page here.
