(Image provided, The Salvation Army)
The Salvation Army of Northwest Indiana has announced Northern Indiana Public Service Company (NIPSCO) has presented a $25,000 donation funded by the NiSource Charitable Foundation to fund its continued response in areas affected by the tornado outbreak on June 11, 2026. This donation will be used to provide food and other relief to households in Lake and Porter County that were impacted by the storm. The Emergency Disaster Services (EDS) team is continuing to distribute water, snacks, hygiene kits, and cleaning supplies to area residents.
The additional funds from NIPSCO will help to purchase more cleaning supplies and items for the hygiene kits, as well as a variety of gift cards. Grocery, fast food, and gasoline cards will help households that lost food stores, cannot prepare meals at home, or need assistance fueling their vehicles or generators, a news release said.
In addition to the financial support, around 30 NIPSCO employees gathered on Monday, June 22 to volunteer with The Salvation Army. They assembled hygiene kits, passed out 350 box lunches, and assisted with other relief efforts. The NIPSCO team also brought an additional charging station to help keep key devices running during Monday’s cleanup and response efforts.
“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. “We are committed to working alongside our partners to provide support and help our neighbors begin to rebuild.”
“Today, we are deeply grateful for our partnership with NiSource/NIPSCO and the incredible volunteers who have stepped up to support our Merrillville community in the wake of the recent tornado,” said Captain Jim Prichard, Corps Officer for The Salvation Army Gary-Merrillville Corps. “Their presence alongside The Salvation Army, the Northwest Indiana Food Bank, United Way, The American Red Cross, and others demonstrates the true spirit of compassion and unity. By serving lunch and providing essential cleaning supplies and resources, we are not only helping to rebuild homes but also restoring hope—one meal, one helping hand at a time. Together, we stand ready to serve and uplift every neighbor affected by this disaster.”
Those wishing to support The Salvation Army’s efforts on the ground can give online at salarmy.us/Indiana-Storms . A Walmart registry has also been set up to collect in-kind donations like cleaning supplies, personal hygiene items, diapers, and first aid kits. Items purchased from the registry will be shipped directly to The Salvation Army. (Access Walmart registry HERE.)
Contact The Salvation Army Northwest Area Command at (219) 838-0380 for any inquiries about volunteer needs.
