News Release
For Immediate Release: 12.31.24
Contact: John Manning, media@firstliberty.org
Direct: 972-941-4453
Daytona Beach Reverses, Allows Food Distribution to Impoverished Families
City ordinance that singled out churches operating food pantries in redevelopment repealed, church food program resumes.
Daytona Beach, FL—First Liberty Institute and the law firm Sidley Austin L.L.P. today announced that the City of Daytona Beach repealed the ordinance challenged by Seventh-Day Baptist Church of Daytona’s federal lawsuit. The City previously agreed to allow the Church to resume its food distribution ministry while it repealed its ordinance, and the City’s latest action of repealing the ordinance makes that temporary agreement permanent. The federal court officially dismissed the case pursuant to a settlement agreement submitted by the Church and the City.
“We are grateful to Daytona Beach city officials for working with us so that Seventh Baptist can resume its mission of providing food for the hungry, hurting people in the community,” said Ryan Gardner, Counsel at First Liberty Institute. “People who take action to care for the hungry should be encouraged and affirmed. The church is thrilled to be able to continue helping those in need.”
Since 2007, Seventh Baptist Church has operated its food pantry for the most vulnerable families in the community. For most of that time, the City, and its citizens, not only allowed the Church’s food ministry to thrive, but they also supported it and encouraged it. Even after the Church moved to its current location—within what the City calls a “redevelopment area,” just like its prior location—the City allowed the Church to operate the food pantry without issue. An enforcement action by the City, however, forced the Church to close the pantry. After a federal lawsuit was filed on behalf of the Church, the City quickly worked with Church officials to restore the food ministry.
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About First Liberty Institute
First Liberty Institute is a non-profit public interest law firm and the largest legal organization in the nation dedicated exclusively to defending religious freedom for all Americans.
To arrange an interview, contact John Manning at media@firstliberty.org or by calling 972-941-4453.
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