BY AUGUST MAULFAIR
The average working American is being squeezed — and we’re feeling it. The most vulnerable families are being pushed further into poverty, and are having increased difficulties getting enough food. They’re experiencing food insecurity — the lack of access to safe and nutritional food. Rates of food insecurity in Volusia County are soaring — 13.4 percent of people in Volusia County are experiencing food insecurity, according to the national nonprofit organization Feeding America.
This is up from 10.4 percent last year.
But this rise in food insecurity isn’t just a statistic — it’s a stark reminder of how seriously economic instability is impacting our community.
“Food insecurity in Volusia County affects every age group, but it is children, youth and older adults who often bear the greatest burden,” Dr. Rajni Shankar-Brown, Stetson professor and advocate for food equity, explained.
For children, inadequate access to nutritious food can hinder learning, development and overall well-being, while seniors on fixed incomes frequently face impossible choices between food, medication, and other necessities.
Many in Volusia County live in food deserts, areas where affordable and nutritious food is scarce, leaving fast food or convenience store snacks as the only viable options.
The solution begins with collective action. Readers can support local organizations combating hunger by donating money, volunteering, or hosting food drives. Advocating for policy changes that address the root causes of food insecurity — such as increasing access to affordable housing, raising wages, or expanding food assistance programs — can also make a meaningful impact. Even smaller acts, like donating nonperishable goods to local food pantries or sharing information about local resources, can help neighbors in need.
To find a food pantry near you, please visit: https://volusia.floridahealth.gov/programs-and-services/community-health-planning-and-statistics/county-resources/Food-Pantries-Meals-West-Side.html
Listed below are local food pantries in West Volusia:
Lake Helen
Lake Helen Methodist Church
121 W. Delaware Ave., Lake Helen 32744
1st and 3rd Monday of each month, 8:30am-10:30am and 5pm-7pm
Deltona
Deltona Presbyterian Church
2300 Howland Blvd., Deltona 32738
1st and 3rd Tuesday of each month, 9am-11am
DeBary
Community United Methodist DeBary
41 W. Highbanks Road, DeBary 32713
Wednesday 9am-10:30am
3rd Saturday of each month, 9am-10:30am
Pierson/Seville
Pierson United Methodist Church
717 W. Second Ave, Pierson 32180
2nd and 4th Friday and Saturday of each month
DeLand
Neighborhood Center of West Volusia
434 S. Woodland Blvd., DeLand 32720
Monday through Thursday, 9am-12pm and 12:45pm-4pm
Friday, 9am-12pm
Orange City
West Volusia Dream Center
2479 S. Volusia Ave., Orange City 32763
2nd and 4th Saturday of the month, 9am
— August Maulfair is an AmeriCorps VISTA serving at Stetson University as Food Equity Coordinator. In addition, Maulfair runs the SNAP/EBT Program at the Artisan Alley Farmer’s Market.
