Stories of Hope: Couple's long journey uplifted by FBH Community

For Samantha Davis and Dwayne Langhorn, family has always been their source of strength.

Together they raised their two children, Jayden, 20, and Sierra, 14 — in the heart of the Daytona Beach community. Both Samantha and Dwayne have dedicated years of their lives to serving their community as Volusia County School employees. Samantha has been with the school district for an incredible 18 years, giving her time, energy, and heart to local students and families working for the School Way Café. She worked six years in the cafeteria.

In 2012, she went back to school and received her associate's degree and became a VCS paraprofessional. In 2021, with the encouragement from Dwayne and her family, she went back to school to receive her bachelor's degree in Exceptional Student Education. In December, she will officially have her degree and will be a VCS 9th grade English teacher.

But even families who give so much can find themselves needing support.

Samantha first connected with FBH Community during a local Fresh Market event where fresh produce was being distributed. What started as a simple visit became a turning point. She learned about the FBH Community program and left not only with food for her family, but with new knowledge and inspiration. After her visit, she and her family were incorporating more fruits and vegetables into their meals, something that has been difficult as food prices have risen.

During the same event, Samantha also learned about the FBHC's Homes Bring Hope (HBH) program. After living in subsidized housing for eight years, where families only receive maximum of 10 years of rental assistance, she knew the time to move was approaching. With two incomes but limited resources, the family needed guidance and support. Food had become harder to purchase, and the support from FBH Community's VCan and Fresh Market arrived at a critical time.

"The food programs helped us not only to keep our family fed but also helped us eat healthier meals," Samantha shared. "It made a difference when we needed it the most."

Even in challenging moments, Samantha and Dwayne never lost hope. They never lost their desire to uplift others, either. Giving back is simply part of who they are. Service runs in their family — Samantha's mother operates a nonprofit, Healthier, Wealthier.

As the holidays approach, Samantha's wish is beautifully simple: "To be happy with family — with food and love."

They plan to gather with relatives, celebrate together, and hold onto the joy they continue to build as a family. They are looking forward to beginning the process of homeownership through the Homes Bring Hope program.

Samantha wants others to know they should never hesitate to reach out. "FBHC has helped so many people in the community, including myself and my family."

The family wish list includes gift cards. Samantha would like supplies for her new classroom.

Her family's story is a reminder that hope grows when communities lift one another up — one meal, one resource, one moment of kindness at a time.

About this series: FBH Community fosters programs that tackle the root causes of generational poverty. Its initiatives include Food Brings Hope's KidsZone, TeenZone, FBHonors, Change the Code, and the Lemerand Center of Excellence at Daytona State College. Other FBHC programs include VCan, focused on ending hunger and homelessness among youth and families with children; Homes Bring Hope, which creates homeownership opportunities for working families; and the Prosperity Initiative, helping families achieve stability and advancement. Because the Hosseini Family Foundation covers the overhead costs, 100% of donations directly support programs and families. This holiday season, The News-Journal is spotlighting FBH Community by sharing stories from its participants and families. To contribute or donate a holiday gift, visit FBHCommunity.org, email  info@FBHCommunity.org  or call 386-317-5767 .

This article originally appeared on The Daytona Beach News-Journal: Stories of Hope: Couple's long journey uplifted by FBH Community