Hundreds of walkers grinned and laughed Saturday as they ambled off under a multi-colored balloon archway in celebration of Gary’s Sojourner Truth House’s 26th annual fundraising walk.

Led by Mayor Eddie Melton, the walk’s grand marshal and his wife, Crystal, the walkers journeyed through the neighborhood around the center, at 410 W. 13th Ave. They marched down the middle of Broadway, before returning back where games, food and vendors awaited them.

Founded 28 years ago by nuns in the Diocese of Gary, the Sojourner Truth House represents a beacon of hope to homeless women and children.

Sisters Peg Spindler and Joan Fisher led the effort and Sister Kathleen Quinn, a nurse, later joined them.

Named after a freed slave, abolitionist and women’s rights advocate, Sojourner Truth House lends support and provides resources when some women have nowhere else to turn.

It offers a day center, food pantry, community garden, and social programs from counseling to career services, with the goal of returning women to housing stability and financial security.

“The mission was serving the poor, the needy and serving with love,” said Sister Kathleen, 96. “They didn’t count those women as homeless until we came along.”

Sojourner Truth House has built a sturdy coalition of volunteers from churches and organizations across Northwest Indiana.

Michelle Orlando, of St. John, said she first began volunteering with her former church, Suncrest Christian Church in St. John.

“I love this organization because of all the good they do,” she said. “They’re God’s light in the dark times.”

Executive director Angela Paul said Saturday’s walk is the organization’s biggest fundraiser and they were nearing their goal of $110,000.

She said the money goes toward client support such as housing or medical needs.

The organization has established two supportive housing projects, Paul said. There are 51 scattered sites and a 60-day housing unit near Grant Street.

Next year, she said they hope to establish transitional housing. “That’s our goal,” she said.

Melton said Sojourner Truth House has been “a pillar in the community, not just in Gary, but for Northwest Indiana.”

In return, Melton said the community needs to provide its support.

“That’s why it’s important I brought my entire leadership team,” Melton said.

“This is our second year in a row to collectively show that the Melton administration has supported this organization.”

Carole Carlson is a freelance reporter for the Post-Tribune.