With inflation and rising gas costs keeping the cost of food high, grocery bills are becoming a greater part of the budget for many people in Brevard County. 

That burden becomes even more palpable for those experiencing homelessness. That’s one reason why the services offered by Viola Roth’s organization, Frontline Outreach, remain so important for those living in central Brevard County.

Roth, a former social worker for more than 30 years, decided to start the nonprofit back in early 2020 as the pandemic was starting to really set in. She said that even though some of the pandemic burden has started to ease, her group is still seeing a fair amount of demand for services.

“I receive calls on a weekly basis with families that are in need of clothing,” Roth said.

The organization creates opportunities for people to come and receive food that they can take with them or eat there at the facility at 5455 N. U.S. 1 in Cocoa. 

Roth said not only does her experience as a social worker give her the ability to better empathize with those she and her family work with, but she also draws from her own experience going through homelessness after her late husband passed away. 

“I can sit with them in a non-judgmental environment and I can build that rapport with them and a relationship with them, because I really want to know what got you to this place in life,” Roth said. “And are you ready to move from this place in your life to a healthy place.” 

She brings her culinary skills to the table to help them as well. Every other Wednesday, she uses donated food from both individuals and local businesses to make hot, fresh meals for those who come by. 

Roth said it’s not uncommon for them to feed about 400 people on those days. On the opposite weeks, they use donations from places like Publix and Pizza Hut to provide food for those who come.

They also support give-a-ways where they will offer donated items, like clothing and toiletries.

“When they come they’re going to be received right where they are,” Roth said.

Volunteer Harriett Brayboy said she came to join Roth when she was going through a rough period in her own life after losing some family members. She said it’s a joy to have the regular Wednesday outlet of serving others. 

“When I come here on Wednesdays, I not only come and get what I need, but I come and help serve the community," she said. "This brings me joy and fulfillment in my own life to help someone that is going through something worse than I’m going through. So, to give back to the community and to serve them, it’s a blessing.” 

In late January, the Brevard Homeless Coalition conducted a Point-in-Time survey to track the number of people experiencing homelessness across Brevard County. 

Because the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development extended the period during which municipalities can report their data, the full report hasn’t been published yet. The director of BHC told Spectrum News 13 that she wouldn’t be surprised to see the numbers this year double from 2019 numbers.

It’s that great and persistent community need that keeps Roth going and will continue, she said, as long as the community continues to support her with donations. 

“To know that we're able to provide food for individuals on a week-to-week basis every Wednesday, and other days throughout the week is very rewarding,” Roth said.