Food Ministries

Bridge of Hope, operated by Halifax Urban Ministries, is a daily hot meal service that addresses food insecurity among the unsheltered and those in need throughout Daytona Beach’s 32114 zip code. The program provides balanced meals—featuring protein, vegetables, fruit, salad, starch, dessert, and a beverage—served every day, and additionally supports residents of partner shelters such as Recovery Cafe. HUM's mobile pantry initiative further extends its reach by delivering these nourishing meals directly to those unable to travel to fixed locations.

Each year, Bridge of Hope distributes over 90,000 hot meals, making it a vital part of HUM’s homeless support network. The program relies on more than 30,000 hours of volunteer service annually, operating 363 days a year to ensure consistent, nutritious food access. Through both stationary and mobile efforts, Bridge of Hope plays a pivotal role in HUM’s mission of preventing homelessness by meeting immediate nutritional needs.

Feed‑a‑Family is Halifax Urban Ministries' cornerstone homeless prevention initiative, designed to alleviate financial pressures for struggling families by providing a monthly 32-pound bag of groceries. Delivered through four community centers—in Ormond Beach, Daytona Beach, Port Orange, and New Smyrna Beach—as well as two schools (Campbell and Beachside), each food bag can supply seven to ten meals per week and often includes frozen meats and fresh produce to enhance nutritional value. 

Eligibility requires Volusia County residency, proof of income and identity, documentation such as utility or rent bills, social security cards, and SNAP status. By reducing grocery expenses, Feed‑a‑Family frees up household funds for essential costs like rent and utilities. Annually, HUM distributes nearly 500 tons of food through this program, significantly contributing to the stability of about 2,700 families each month and preventing many from falling into homelessness.

Derbyshire Community Garden, located at the Derbyshire Place community center operated by Halifax Urban Ministries, is a vibrant 100-by-80-foot garden with 36 growing plots primarily serving the Derbyshire neighborhood. Established in 2019 to combat food insecurity in this urban food desert, the garden provides affordable or subsidized plots and offers educational programming—including workshops on harvesting, food safety, cooking, and new gardening techniques such as hydroponics—to empower residents with fresh produce and healthy-eating skills. In 2022, the garden expanded its sustainability impact by installing an 18-panel solar array through a collaboration with Embry‑Riddle students and community partners, which reduces electricity costs and supports the ability to serve up to 60 additional meals per month.