NW Indiana storm recovery continues with thousands still without power
CHICAGO (WLS) -- People in parts of Northwest Indiana are still struggling to recover from last week's tornadoes and storms.
Thousands have been without power for days, and many are relying on food giveaways.
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Like others, the Dean and Barbara White Community Center in Merrillville is working to help neighbors as thousands wait in the dark.
While NIPSCO is promising some could have their service restored by Tuesday or Wednesday, others may not get electricity back until a week from Tuesday.
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It is a challenge for many people who say it gets harder every day to keep their families cool, fed and safe.
"We have to keep everything in coolers, ice," Gary resident Cynthia Bailey said. "You look in this refrigerator, it is empty. Everything is spoiled...this is how it feels in here. If you sitting here, walking, I'm sweating,"
Bailey lives in Gary and said life with her family is a struggle as they endure another day with no power.
A thermostat inside her home showed temperatures into the 80s.
She said she starts her day spending hours at a South Holland gas station where she can charge her cellphone.
She said going to a shelter is not a real option because her three-year-old son has autism.
Her situation is not unlike thousands of other Northwest Indiana residents who are waiting in the dark while Nipsco Crews work around the clock.
"We have people coming from New York, Louisiana, West Virginia, just all over the Midwest and southern part of the country to help with the restorations as well as just help customers," said Vince Parisi, president and chief operating officer at NIPSCO.
There are several giveaways planned across Northwest Indiana to help those in need.
Tuesday's event at the Merrillville Community Center is set to start at noon.
