Carmel’s ‘Rally for Relief’ raises $20K for flood recovery

Community members joined forces to deliver overwhelming support at Carmel’s Rally for Relief event on Thursday, Aug. 27. Organized through a broad coalition of civic partners, business leaders and dedicated volunteers, the event generated substantial donations to support critical hunger relief and disaster recovery initiatives.

In total, the Rally for Relief collected:

• $20,825 in cash donations
• 5,000 pounds of non-perishable food
• 20 pallets of cleaning and recovery supplies
• $225 in gift cards

The event’s success was driven by a collaborative team effort involving Mayor Sue Finkam, the Carmel City Council, OneZone Chamber of Commerce, Hamilton County Harvest Food Bank, the Hamilton County Community Foundation, and the Lucas Oil family, who all helped organize and volunteer on the ground throughout the evening.

“The heart and generosity of Carmel shone bright yesterday,” Mayor Finkam said. “When our neighbors need support, this community steps up without hesitation. We are deeply grateful to Lucas Oil and the Lucas family, our City Councilors, OneZone Chamber, the Hamilton County Harvest Food Bank, and the Hamilton County Community Foundation for rolling up their sleeves to organize and volunteer. This drive was a success because of our shared commitment to serving others.”

Food and supply donations will directly support local families and relief initiatives through Hamilton County Harvest Food Bank and community partners.