Companies continue to donate their employees' time and services after a tornado outbreak June 11 and storms that tore through Northwest Indiana on June 25.

NIPSCO's outage map showed 23,600 customers were impacted by the June 25 line of storms. Crews were working around the clock to assess damage and restore power, particularly in Gary, Griffith, Hammond and Merrillville. The utility expected power to be restored to all customers by 11 p.m. June 26. Gary Public Transportation Corp. service also was disrupted, but was ready for the evening rush.

These communities were already recovering from June 10-11 damage. NIPSCO reported that 61,900 customers were without power after those storms. Some customers were without power until June 16.

At leas six tornadoes tore through the Region on June 11, according to the National Weather Service. The strongest was in Kouts with EF-3 winds estimated at 165 mph. Merrillville and Elkhart County withstood EF-2 tornadoes.

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).

Tonn and Blank Construction was one of the organizations that mobilized within hours of the tornado to help Andrean High School in Merrillville. A crew of 38 team members worked through the weekend to clean up and start the recovery process.

“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.”

Others have joined since then. The Legacy Foundation brought together the Town of Merrillville, United Way Northwest Indiana, the American Red Cross and the Salvation Army for a day of cleanup June 26.

“We are calling on our incredible network of residents, leaders and professionals to roll up their sleeves and help these families safely get back on their feet,” according to a foundation statement.

The organizations called for volunteers who can use heavy equipment, chainsaws, skilled tradws workers and others with specialized skills.

The NiSource Charitable Foundation donated $25,000 on June 25 to help provide food and other supplies to homeowners in Lake and Porter counties who experienced tornado damage. About 30 NIPSCO employees also volunteered on June 22 to assemble hygiene kits and pass out 350 boxed lunches.

“The recent severe storms have had a real impact on families in our community, and our hearts are with everyone affected,” said Vince Parisi, NIPSCO president and chief operating officer, in a press release. “We are committed to working alongside our partners to provide support and help our neighbors begin to rebuild.”

On June. 19, Gov. Mike Braun declared a state of disaster emergency in 63 counties, including Elkhart, Jasper, Lake, La Porte, Marshall, Newton, Porter St. Joseph. The Lake County board also declared a disaster emergency.

“Many Hoosier communities were impacted by the severe weather that swept through our state this week,” said Braun in a press release. “This emergency declaration ensures that every available state resource is mobilized quickly to support response efforts, help local governments address urgent needs, and help Hoosiers recover.”

The emergency is effective for 30 days and allows the Indiana Department of Homeland Security to provide assistance to families with eligible expenses.

Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Gary also started a Tornado Relief Fund for recovery efforts.

“Our hearts are with everyone affected by these storms,” said Terry Seljan, Executive Director of Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Gary. “While cleanup may begin immediately, recovery often takes weeks, months, and sometimes years. We are committed to helping our neighbors navigate both the immediate needs and the longer journey toward stability and recovery.”

AT&T also has a discretionary “Acts of Kindness” program. During the Lake Village tornado in March a technician helped a family with essentials like bedding, a TV, fishing gear and a new scooter for the daughter.

Resources:

• Sign up to be a weather disaster response volunteer, United Way Northwest Indiana, 219-464-3583, www.unitedwaynwi.org
• Donate to the Salvation Army's relief fund here
• Donate to the Merrillville Emergency Response Fund here
• Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Gary, Outreach@catholic-chartities.org; 219-886-3549, Option 2; www.catholic-charities.org
• Purchase needed items from the Walmart NWI disaster relief supply registry
• Apply for individual assistance here