The Bright Minds Foundation, the foundation of The Howard County Public School System (HCPSS), announced today the launch of an initiative to raise funds to eliminate outstanding school lunch balances. HCPSS recently reported that its school meals fund carries a growing deficit, which currently stands more than $50,000 and is increasing rapidly. The deficit reflects the significant economic challenges faced by many Howard County families, which are exacerbated by the federal government shutdown.

“Thank you to the Bright Minds Foundation for its leadership and for taking this important proactive step,” said Superintendent Dr. Michael J. Martirano, who this week announced expedited processing of Free and Reduced Meals (FARMs) applications to support families impacted by the federal government shutdown. “It is critical that every child has their needs met before we can expect them to thrive in an academic setting. This important initiative will help us support many of our students and families.”

Bright Minds and HCPSS also encourage all families to check their eligibility for the FARMs program. To learn more about the benefits of the FARMs program, check eligibility status and apply, visit the HCPSS FARMs website.

Contributions to the Emergency Lunch Fund may be made on this website on the Donate page, or by check to the Bright Minds Foundation, 10910 Clarksville Pike, Ellicott City, MD 21042. Please designate “Emergency Lunch Fund” in the comment field or on the memo line.

For more information, please contact Liz Crammond, Executive Director of the Bright Minds Foundation, at 410-740-0707 or liz@brightmindsfoundation.org.

Bright Minds Foundation is the educational foundation of the Howard County Public School System. Bright Minds enhances the educational opportunities of all Howard County public school students by bringing together private and community support for academic initiatives and opportunities. We help level the playing field so all students have a chance to succeed.