Since Pam Edwards began her volunteer work with Meals on Wheels of Northwest Indiana, she has formed a connection with John Ruiz, 85, a friendly client on her Merrillville route. After the powerful storms of August 11, she was relieved to learn of his well-being. On August 21, as Pam briefly visited him, he mentioned that he regained power only the previous day. His brother-in-law had been checking on him, and he relied on McDonald’s meals during the period when the nonprofit couldn’t deliver. “Knowing he has someone who checks,” Pam, 69, reflects, “makes a difference.”

Another volunteer, Joe Seremet from Schererville, shares insights on the storms’ impact on his usual meal delivery route. He highlights the challenges faced while loading meals on Friday, August 21, 2026.

Vega Blossom, another volunteer, encountered unique challenges during her routine route in Gary. On August 18, she found herself with nine extra meals intended for her regular 27 clients. Spotting a weary mother with children, including a newborn, outside, she offered some meals to them. The mother mentioned still being without power. Vega expresses, “Seeing someone in such circumstances is tough, but knowing we can assist is reassuring.”

NIPSCO’s power outage map showed over 33,000 individuals, including about 17,000 in Gary, were still without power as of Saturday morning.

Despite the historic outages, Meals on Wheels continues to serve as a vital resource for Gary and Northwest Indiana. With over 500 volunteers on more than 50 routes, the organization provides around 2,200 meals daily, states Volunteer Manager Faith Evers. According to protocol, volunteers can report clients’ changed conditions via the delivery app if concerned. The client services team will then contact the person or emergency contact for a wellness check.

Patricia Harris, a ten-year Meals on Wheels employee, prepared meal deliveries on Friday, August 21, 2026.

The organization has adapted by delivering hot meals over weekends to those without power. Names of those in need are sourced from Gary’s city government, allowing quicker meal delivery, notes Evers. Normally a two-day process, they now deliver meals within the same day due to high demand.

Melissa Huffman, Director of Community Engagement and Marketing, mentioned in an email that since the storms, approximately 21 new clients have been added. Annually, they provide around 108,000 meals in Gary. The nonprofit aims to raise $50,000 via its fundraising campaign, Neighbors in Need: Start Your Engines NWI, which would equate to 8,000 meals.

Individuals seeking services can contact 219-756-3663, ext. 1, or visit mownwi.org/registration. Donations are welcomed via phone at 219-756-3663 or online at mownwi.org or donorbox.org/neighbors-in-need.