October 29, 2025
For Immediate Release
CONTACT:
Office of Communications
301-952-6001
communications@pgcps.org
UPPER MARLBORO, MD — As families across the region feel the impact of the federal government shutdown, Prince George’s County Public Schools (PGCPS) has expanded access to nutritious meals for students through a new After School Hot Supper Program — part of the district’s broader effort to ensure students are healthy, supported, and ready to learn.
The new program offers students a hot, balanced meal after school — a change from the standard cold bag meals that had become repetitive for many. Schools with a Free and Reduced-Price Meals (FARMS) rate of 50% or higher, and that have at least 75 students enrolled in after-school programs are eligible to participate. Meals are prepared and served by Food and Nutrition Services (FNS) staff according to each school’s activity schedule.
“This expansion comes at a time when families are feeling stretched,” said Interim Superintendent Dr. Shawn Joseph. “PGCPS will always be there to meet students’ needs — not just in the classroom, but at the table. By adding new hot supper options and expanding free breakfast, we’re helping more families manage through uncertain times."
The Hot Supper Program is federally funded and requires no additional training or administrative reporting from schools. The goal is to remove barriers to participation while ensuring students receive nutritious meals that fuel learning and engagement throughout the day.
“Students who know they can get a hot meal at the end of the day are more likely to stay engaged and participate in after-school activities,” said Mary Kirkland, Director of Food and Nutrition Services. “When schools switch from cold to hot meals, they see an increase in participation and satisfaction.”
Kirkland added that families experiencing changes in income including furloughs or other employment adjustments are encouraged to apply or reapply for FARMS at any time during the school year. Even if a student attends a Community Eligibility Provision (CEP) school and automatically receives free meals, submitting an application can yield additional benefits.
PGCPS also expanded its free breakfast program this school year, adding 23 more schools through Maryland Meals for Achievement (MMFA) for a total of 115 schools offering free breakfast to all students.
The district’s expanded meal programs align with Blueprint for Maryland’s Future Pillar 4, which focuses on providing wraparound services that address students’ social, emotional, and physical needs.
To learn more, visit pgcps.org/hotsupper.
