Stories of Hope: FBH comes through for Daytona family during shutdown
For Keyana Alexander, a devoted mother in Daytona Beach, life has always been about staying strong for her children: Tyler, 7; Skyler, 6; Dashaun (D.J.), 1; and baby Zuri, 2 months old. Every day brings new challenges, but Alexander meets them with love, determination and a deep desire to give her children the stability they deserve.
But when the government shutdown hit, everything changed overnight.
Alexander depends on SNAP/EBT to help feed her growing family. When her benefits stopped and she didn't know when or if they would return, Alexander worried how she would support her four children, including a newborn, who still needed diapers, wipes and formula. She had already budgeted every dollar, and now she was forced to spend money she simply did not have.
"I needed diapers, wipes and the basic things my kids needed," Alexander shared. "I couldn't afford to buy them without my EBT, I could barely afford food at all."
As the days passed, the worry deepened, and groceries ran out fast. Alexander found herself struggling to feed her children or sometimes trying to stretch meals or even having to skip meals so her children could eat. It all became overwhelming, especially for the newborn who needed baby formula.
Alexander reached out to multiple community agencies for help. But it was FBH Community VCan that answered her call.
"FBH replied quickly and offered assistance right away," she said. "I didn't know how or if I was going to feed my family. But FBHC stepped in."
Within hours, food and other much needed items were delivered to help Alexander get through the crisis. The relief was overwhelming. It meant peace instead of panic. It was a much-needed blessing.
"It's good to know that if you need immediate assistance, FBHC VCan is there for you," Alexander said. "They helped my family when we were at our lowest."
Today, Alexander is still rebuilding — holding on to her faith and standing stronger.
"Thank you FBHC VCan for supporting my family," she said. "Your help made a tremendous difference when we needed it most. I'm very grateful for this organization."
For Christmas, the family's wish list includes matching pajama sets. Tyler wishes for anything sports-related or Marvel, Skyler wishes for baby dolls, D.J. wishes for cars and trucks. Baby Zuri needs clothes.
"We are very grateful to our community for all the support," Alexander said.
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: FBH comes through for Daytona family during shutdown
