Tonn and Blank Construction is proud to be a part of the new Daybreak homeless shelter in Valparaiso—a project that truly shows the power of community coming together. This two-story, 9,600 square foot facility isn’t just about bricks and mortar; it’s about providing hope and a fresh start for those who need it most. With temporary housing for homeless men and an emergency overnight wing for men, women, and children, the shelter is designed to help people get back on their feet with dignity and support.

The building includes an industrial kitchen, walk-in cooler and freezer, onsite washers and dryers, and a warming center with in-floor heating to keep folks safe during the cold winter months. The heart of the facility is a day room where people can gather for meals and access social services that aim to help them find jobs, permanent housing, and healthcare. It’s more than just a shelter – it’s a stepping stone toward a better life.

Mitch Peters, Respite House founder and board member credits the city, Tonn and Blank, and others for their generosity.

“The $300,000 HVAC system was donated, and Tonn and Blank raised $1.6 million — about half the cost of the building. Franciscan Health donated furnishings from the old Crown Point hospital. Ladybug Cleaners donated the commercial washers and dryers. Trailyard donated pots, pans and other kitchen supplies when the restaurant closed. The city provided a five-year lease for the land, after which Respite House can petition for ownership to be transferred. The list of benefactors goes on and on.” Read Mitch’s full interview with the Chicago Tribune here.

Tonn and Blank isn’t just building this space; we’re living out our commitment to the community. Our team has been hands-on, self-performing the concrete work, framing, ironwork, door installations, and casework. But it’s not just about what we’ve done—it’s about how we’ve come together with an incredible group of trade partners who have generously donated time, materials, and labor to make this vision a reality. Companies like Circle R Mechanical, H&T Electrical, Sweney Electric, Arctic Engineering, Beacon, Meyer Glass, Delta III, Fort Wayne Reinforcing, Smith Ready Mix, Operators Union, Laborers Union, Cement Masons Union, and Ironworkers have all stepped up to give back in a big way.

Community involvement isn’t just something we talk about; it’s the backbone of who we are. We’re honored to stand alongside so many local heroes who have shown that when a community pulls together, incredible things happen.

 

Tonn and Blank volunteers on a scorching hot Saturday morning at the Daybreak homeless shelter.