Local churches and organizations continue to help residents through food giveaways.

PHOTOS BY DUANE C. FERNANDEZ SR./HARDNOTTSPHOTOGRAPHY.COM
BY DAYTONA TIMES STAFF

As Congress and President Trump remained at odds over getting financial help to Americans, the needs were getting more dire. The coronavirus pandemic left many families scrambling to put food on the table and Christmas gifts under the tree.
The $900 billion economic relief package that Congress passed on Dec. 21 includes $13 billion for nutrition assistance for food-insecure Americans.
Throughout the pandemic, local agencies, churches, organizations and businesses have hosted food giveaway events to help those in need get the nourishment they deserve. Most of these have been drive-through with volunteers loading food to vehicles to ensure there’s safe social distance.
Over the past months, the Daytona Times has highlighted locals who have stepped up and helped residents in need of food and other items with the assistance of area food banks.
On Dec. 16, Pastor Victor and Dynel Miles of the Mind of Christ Ministries hosted another Community Food Pantry Mobile Drop Distribution Drive-In Service.
Hundreds of motorists pulled up to Bethune-Cookman University’s Center for Civic Engagement.
On Dec. 17, New Life Church Ministries held another one. Sponsors included the Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Rose Marie Bryon Children’s Center and Second Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida. The church also has hosted regular food giveaways for struggling residents.