DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. – With the federal government shutdown delaying SNAP benefit payments and food costs continuing to climb, food banks in Volusia County say they are seeing a significant rise in families seeking help, including many turning to food assistance for the first time.
Second Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida says the demand has intensified in recent weeks as families juggle high grocery prices, ongoing storm recovery and uncertainty surrounding federal nutrition aid.
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“We’re seeing a 300% increase in families seeking assistance week over week,” said Stephanie Palacios, director of advocacy and government relations for Second Harvest. “Pantries told us their appointments are booked beyond what they’ve ever seen. It’s really the perfect storm driving families to seek assistance wherever they can find it.”
[WATCH: SNAP benefits uncertainty grows as government shutdown continues]
To help meet the need, Volusia County is investing $250,000 in federal disaster recovery funds to expand food access across the county. Half of the funding, $125,000, is supporting large community food distribution events in partnership with Second Harvest, including a major drive-thru giveaway on Thursday in Daytona Beach.
The remaining $125,000 is being used to supply smaller food pantries and churches so families can access help closer to home.
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“I think everybody across the community is trying to come together to address food insecurity,” said Clayton Jackson, spokesperson for Volusia County. “The county, municipalities, nonprofits, even the sheriff’s office has events this weekend. We’re all trying to do what we can to help.”
The drive-thru food giveaway is at Hope Place:
- 1340 Wright St., Daytona Beach
- Noon to 3 p.m.
- Open to Volusia County residents
- No income requirements: county ID requested
Second Harvest says demand will likely continue to grow through the holiday season as more families feel the strain of delayed SNAP benefits.
County officials are encouraging residents to arrive early due to anticipated long lines.