Fresh Produce Initiative Launches in Daytona to Combat Food Insecurity

421 S. Keech St., Daytona Beach, FL, USA - In a significant move to combat food insecurity, Bethune-Cookman University has opened a food pantry on its Daytona Beach campus, serving as a vital resource for students facing grocery challenges. Since its launch on February 3, 2025, the pantry aims to alleviate the struggle many students encounter when trying to afford basic nutritional needs. This new initiative, along with the collaboration between Feeding Florida and Second Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida, seeks to improve access to fresh produce in the community.

On July 16, city commissioners approved a public use permit for a mobile food distribution program. Fresh fruits and vegetables will be distributed at two vital Volusia County Health Department locations: 421 S. Keech St. and 1845 Holsonback Drive. While specific dates and times for the distributions have yet to be announced, local residents can look forward to this support aimed at reducing food costs and improving overall health.

Community Support and Resources

Feeding Florida, a network connecting statewide food banks, plays a crucial role in tackling hunger in the area. The organization supports over 2,400 local charitable agencies, providing an extensive system of assistance to those in need. Second Harvest Food Bank, another key player, operates across seven counties, having distributed enough food to create 76 million meals last year alone. Their impact remains profoundly felt in combating food insecurity.

For anyone needing immediate help, the public is encouraged to contact available hotlines at 407-978-5306 or 407-295-1066. Additionally, Feeding Florida provides a useful resource for locating food sources by address, city, or ZIP code, which includes food banks and farmers‘ markets throughout the state.

Wider Health Initiatives

The Florida Department of Health is stepping up efforts to ensure nutritious food is accessible across the Sunshine State. Various initiatives focus on enhancing access to healthy foods through local farmers‘ markets and corner stores. One of the long-term goals is to reduce obesity rates while promoting community health. New projects aim to support underserved areas by establishing farmers’ markets that accept SNAP benefits and grants from WIC, directly assisting low-income families.

Equally important is the Fresh Access Bucks (FAB) program, which matches SNAP participants‘ spending, allowing an extra $10 for every $10 spent on Florida-grown fruits and vegetables. A convenient approach, such initiatives not only address nutrition but also foster economic growth and job creation within the community. It’s a win-win situation all around.

Access to good, nutritious food shouldn’t be a luxury; it’s an essential part of fostering healthy communities. With new initiatives sprouting up and a dedicated focus on reducing food insecurity, Volusia County is taking meaningful steps to ensure that its residents have what they need to live healthy, fulfilling lives.