New After School Hot Supper Program Available To PGCPS Kids

PRINCE GEORGE'S COUNTY, MD — Students in after-school programs can take advantage of the new After School Hot Supper Program that replaces the standard cold bag meals previously given.

The new program offers students a hot, balanced meal after school. Buildings with a free and reduced-price meals rate of 50% or higher and that have at least 75 students enrolled in after-school programs are eligible to participate. Meals will be prepared and served by food and nutrition services staff according to each school’s activity schedule.

“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 PGCPS Food and Nutrition Services. “When schools switch from cold to hot meals, they see an increase in participation and satisfaction.”

The After School Hot Supper Program is federally funded and requires no additional training or administrative reporting from schools.

PGCPS also has expanded its Maryland Meals for Achievement program to include 25 more schools this year, bringing the total to 117 schools offering free breakfast to all students.

“This expansion comes at a time when families are feeling stretched,” said PGCPS 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 families manage through uncertain times and making sure every child starts and ends their school day nourished and supported.”

To learn more about the After School Hot Supper Program, visit pgcps.org/hotsupper.