Rep. Soliday issues statement on catastrophic storm damage in northwestern Indiana

Note to the Press – State Rep. Ed Soliday (R-Valparaiso), chair of the House Utilities, Energy and Telecommunications Committee, issued the following statement today following the Governor's executive order declaring a statewide emergency due to flooding, severe weather and tornadic activity and the announcement of additional state resources available to support storm victims.

STATEHOUSE (Aug. 19, 2026) – "A big thank you to the first responders, linemen, businesses and neighbors who are working around the clock to get our lights back on, ensure our safety and provide essential resources to those still struggling with the aftermath of these dangerous storms.  I commend them for their continued bravery and dedication. There is still much to do, and Indiana has resources and tools to ease the process and help our community members recover. I encourage everyone to utilize the tools available to help with necessities such as housing, food and relief funding."

Soliday said the State of Indiana is offering several support resources for impacted residents, including:

• Up to $5,000 in emergency aid grants for eligible Hoosiers in need of assistance. The grants will enable families to get the basics like clothing and food while they are displaced from their homes. To apply, call 2-1-1 or visit on.in.gov/August2026Disaster.
• Temporary housing grants to help eligible displaced Hoosiers transition from emergency shelters into hotels, apartments and other temporary accommodations. Hoosiers in need can call 2-1-1 or visit IN211.communityos.org.
• Emergency SNAP benefit replacements for eligible SNAP recipients who lost food due to the storm or prolonged power outages. Impacted households in Lake and Porter counties may submit applications for replacement benefits through an extended deadline of August 31, 2026 at fssabenefits.in.gov.

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State Rep. Ed Soliday (R-Valparaiso) represents House District 4,
which includes a portion of Porter County.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.