January 17, 2019
For Immediate Release
CONTACT:
Office of Communications
301-952-6001
communications@pgcps.org
UPPER MARLBORO, MD – Following last week’s efforts to support local families impacted by the federal government shutdown, today Prince George’s County Public Schools (PGCPS) announced additional measures to further help the community. In one week, businesses and community members answered and exceeded the call to donate to the 10,000 Meals Challenge fund to cover student meal fees during the federal government shutdown and beyond, generating approximately $31,000. With the original goal exceeded and the shutdown continuing into its fourth week, Interim Chief Executive Officer Dr. Monica Goldson is setting a new goal for the community to provide 20,000 student meals through donations.
PGCPS is also hosting a series of hiring events for furloughed federal workers looking for employment opportunities during the partial shutdown to apply for Substitute Teacher and/or Substitute Paraprofessional positions within the school system. The first event attracted nearly 100 potential workers with a second event upcoming.
“Our community is at our best when we come together to lend a hand, help our neighbors and most importantly, make a difference in the lives of our children,” said Dr. Goldson. “With a growing number of families affected by the shutdown, I am happy PGCPS can step in to offer support. For some students, the meals they receive at school may be their only one of the day. Having qualified and committed substitute teachers is routinely a challenge facing a district of our size. The opportunity to attract high-level talent for these positions, feed students with hot meals and lend a helping hand is a win-win for students and the community at large.”
Along with the meals fund, families are still encouraged to apply for the free and reduced-price meal program immediately. After fast-tracking free and reduced-price meal applications, more than 500 families have been approved to temporarily qualify for the program.
To date, major contributors to the meals fund include Old Line Bank, NAI Michael Company and Councilman Mel Franklin, who each gave or pledged $5,000. Business owner Darrell Lanier, Sardi’s and Educational Systems Federal Credit Union contributed $2,500, respectively. Over $9,000 was raised by individual donors.
Donations will be distributed to schools with the greatest demonstrated need.
To donate, visit www.pgcps.org and click the Meals Challenge button.
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