Volusia County, FL — In a weekend marked by both hardship and hope, thousands of pounds of food were distributed across Volusia County to families still grappling with the economic aftershocks of the recent federal government shutdown. The large-scale relief effort, spearheaded by local agencies, nonprofits, and volunteers, served as a lifeline for residents whose access to essential services—especially food assistance—has been disrupted for weeks.
The most visible of these efforts unfolded at the Daytona International Speedway, where a sprawling drive-thru food distribution event drew hundreds of vehicles in a matter of hours. Organized by the Volusia County Sheriff’s Office in partnership with Second Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida, the event mobilized dozens of volunteers and community partners to deliver over 20,000 pounds of food to those in need.
“This is more than just a food drive,” said Sheriff Mike Chitwood, who helped load boxes into car trunks alongside deputies and volunteers. “This is about restoring dignity and making sure no one in our community is left behind during a time of crisis.”
The federal shutdown, which stretched into its sixth week before a temporary resolution was reached, left millions of Americans without paychecks or access to federal programs. In Volusia County, where nearly 38,000 households rely on the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), the impact has been especially severe. Many recipients saw their benefits delayed or reduced, while others—such as furloughed federal workers and contractors—were left with no safety net at all.
For many, the food distributions were their first experience seeking assistance.
“I’ve worked two jobs for years and never thought I’d be in this position,” said Tanya Morales, a single mother of three who attended the Daytona event. “But when the shutdown hit, my hours were cut, and then my SNAP benefits didn’t come through. This food means my kids won’t go to bed hungry.”
The event at the Speedway was one of several held throughout the county. In Deltona, a similar drive-thru operation saw volunteers from local churches and civic groups handing out bags of rice, beans, canned vegetables, and hygiene products. In New Smyrna Beach, a pop-up pantry at a community center served over 400 families in a single afternoon.
Second Harvest Food Bank reported that demand for food assistance in the region has surged by more than 40% since the shutdown began. “We’re seeing people who’ve never needed help before,” said Karen Broussard, the organization’s vice president of community impact. “They’re teachers, TSA agents, small business owners—people who were just getting by and suddenly found themselves without a paycheck or support.”
The logistics of the weekend’s food drives were formidable. Pallets of food were trucked in from regional warehouses, sorted by volunteers, and distributed with military-like precision. Traffic control was provided by sheriff’s deputies, while local businesses donated everything from bottled water to reusable grocery bags.
Faith-based organizations also played a critical role. At the First United Methodist Church in DeLand, volunteers prepared hot meals for walk-in guests and delivered care packages to homebound seniors. “We’re called to serve,” said Pastor Linda McKinney. “And right now, our neighbors need us more than ever.”
The emotional toll of the shutdown has been profound. Mental health counselors were on hand at several distribution sites to offer support and referrals. “Food insecurity doesn’t just affect the stomach—it affects the soul,” said Dr. Marcus Lee, a clinical psychologist volunteering at the Daytona event. “People are scared, ashamed, and exhausted. But when they see their community rallying around them, it gives them strength.”
Despite the temporary reopening of the federal government, uncertainty looms. Many residents fear another shutdown could be just weeks away, and local agencies are bracing for continued demand. Organizers say they plan to hold additional food distributions in the coming weeks and are calling on the public for donations and volunteer support.
“This weekend showed us what’s possible when a community comes together,” said Sheriff Chitwood. “But we can’t let up. The need is still there, and we have to keep showing up.”
For those who received help, the message was clear: they are not alone.
“I came here feeling embarrassed,” said Morales, the single mother. “But I’m leaving with a full trunk and a full heart. That means everything.”
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