Our History

Halifax Urban Ministries (HUM) is a faith-based 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization serving homeless and low-income families in Volusia and Flagler counties, Florida since 1981. Today, HUM is the area’s largest provider of food, shelter, and basic services to households in need.

How did Halifax Urban Ministries begin?

In 1981, leaders of local churches and synagogues in the Daytona Beach area came together to help neighbors facing economic hardship. What began as volunteers feeding the homeless in local parks quickly grew — the need was so great that HUM secured a building to launch a noon hot meal program, expanding into our mobile pantry.

How has HUM grown since 1981?

From an initial budget of $27,000, Halifax Urban Ministries has grown to a $3.4 million annual operation providing food assistance, emergency shelter, homeless prevention, and veteran services throughout Volusia and Flagler counties. Support comes from individuals, churches, foundations, local businesses, local government funding, and federal funding.

Who can receive help from Halifax Urban Ministries?

Anyone in need. While much of our support comes from the faith community, our services are non-sectarian — no one is ever required to participate in any religious activity to receive food, shelter, or assistance.

The mission of Halifax Urban Ministries (HUM) is to instill hope in those who are homeless or at risk of becoming homeless by meeting needs and helping achieve self-sufficiency.

Our Vision
We envision a compassionate community where every individual facing homelessness or hardship in Volusia and Flagler counties has the resources, support, and opportunity to achieve lasting stability — driven by dignity, care, and hope.

Our Values
Six core values guide everything we do at Halifax Urban Ministries:

Compassion — We provide care and support with kindness and understanding for every person experiencing homelessness or hardship.
Dignity — We treat every individual with respect, regardless of circumstances, and affirm their inherent worth.

Empowerment — We offer the tools and resources people need to grow, achieve independence, and build self-sufficiency.

Community — We build strong, supportive partnerships across our community to create collective impact on homelessness and poverty.

Accountability — We manage our resources responsibly and transparently, ensuring every dollar serves those in need effectively.

Hope — We believe in the potential for positive change in the life of every individual and family we serve.