Lake County legislators: Local one-stop shop for storm recovery assistance now open

STATEHOUSE (Sept. 23, 2026) – A one-stop shop for Hoosiers impacted by last month's severe weather is now open in Lake County, according to local lawmakers.

State Rep. Michael Aylesworth (R-Hebron) said the Lake County one-stop shop is open 9 a.m.-6 p.m. CT Sept. 23-25 and Sept. 28-Oct. 2 at United Steelworkers Local 1014, 1301 Texas St., in Gary.

"The devastation from the storms in August is still affecting the lives of many in Lake County," Aylesworth said. "Community members who have questions about available assistance or need additional help should take this opportunity to get connected to resources in real time."

State Rep. Julie Olthoff (R-Crown Point) said representatives from state and federal agencies will be on site providing information on available resources and assisting storm victims navigate the FEMA and State Disaster Relief Fund application process. Services are provided for free and no appointment is necessary.

"We want to ensure impacted residents are getting the help and support they need through these programs," Olthoff said. "The one-stop shop is a centralized place to apply for funding, learn about next steps and ask questions. I encourage anyone affected by the storms to take advantage of these resources."

Available assistance includes:

Federal assistance:

• FEMA: Individual Assistance application support
• U.S. Small Business Administration: Disaster loan information for individuals

State assistance:

• Housing support: Temporary housing assistance
• Social services: Crisis counseling and mental health service referrals
• Insurance guidance: Help reviewing insurance policies and replacing documents
• Motor vehicle assistance: Support with registrations and licenses
• Public health resources: Vaccination records, vital records (birth and death certificates), tetanus shots and cleanup guidance
• State Disaster Relief Fund: Assistance with SDRF applications

State Rep. Hal Slager (R-Schererville) said residents should bring a valid ID with them and call 2-1-1 or 866-211-9966 for assistance with transportation needs.

"From prolonged power outages to severe damage, last month's weather was devastating to many of our communities," Slager said. "I'm grateful for the federal and state resources that can help our communities and residents in Lake County rebuild."

Find the latest on state and federal resources as well as additional information on one-stop shop locations by visiting the Indiana Department of Homeland Security website.

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State Rep. Michael Aylesworth (R-Hebron) represents House District 11,
which includes portions of Jasper, Lake, Newton and Porter counties.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.

State Rep. Julie Olthoff (R-Crown Point) represents House District 19,
which includes portions of Lake and Porter counties.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo. 

State Rep. Hal Slager (R-Schererville) represents House District 15,
which includes a portion of Lake County.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.