Friday, August 28, 2026
Daily Update on Federal Disaster Response in Northwest Indiana
Following the severe storms and flooding that impacted communities across our region, I want to make sure every resident who needs assistance has the latest information from the Indiana Department of Homeland Security and FEMA.
Starting today, the Indiana Department of Homeland Security and FEMA are bringing Mobile Registration Intake Centers to Lake County. These centers will give residents an opportunity to receive in-person assistance with the federal disaster assistance process, including help starting an application, checking the status of an application, and getting answers to questions about available resources.
No appointment is necessary. Walk-ins are welcome.
Indiana Department of Homeland Security’s release included information such as:
- Survivors should file an insurance claim first. Individuals with homeowners, renters or flood insurance should file a claim before applying for FEMA assistance. FEMA does not duplicate benefits for losses covered by insurance. If a policy does not cover all disaster-related expenses, survivors may still be eligible for federal support.
- Individuals who have already applied for State Disaster Relief Funds must also submit an application for FEMA disaster assistance to be considered for federal support.
The Mobile Intake Centers will be available at rotating locations throughout Crown Point, Hobart, Gary, and Munster through September 5. Locations and times are posted at the Storm Hub maintained by the Lake County Emergency Management and Homeland Security. Please check this link to stay informed of updated times and locations.
Applicants should bring:
- Social Security Number
- Insurance Information
- Damage Information
- Financial Information
- Contact Information
- Direct Deposit Information (optional)
For more information or additional assistance, individuals may contact the FEMA Helpline at 1-800-621-3362, which provides support in multiple languages.
Those who use a relay service, captioned telephone or other assisted communication should provide FEMA with the number associated with that service. An accessible video explaining how to apply is available at “What You Need to Know Before Applying for FEMA Assistance.”
Applicants should remain alert for potential fraud. FEMA representatives will never request payment to complete an application. Applicants should only use disasterassistance.gov, the helpline, or visit a Mobile Registration IntakeCenter (MRIC) to submit an application. Suspected fraud can be reported to StopFEMAFraud@fema.dhs.gov.
As your Congressman, I will continue working alongside our local officials, first responders, the State of Indiana, FEMA, and our community partners to make sure Northwest Indiana has the resources necessary to recover and rebuild.
As always, if you need assistance or have questions about available federal resources, please contact my Merrillville District Office at 219-795-1844 or visit mrvan.house.gov.