PWCS Food Pantries

About the Food Pantry Program

Prince William County Public Schools has launched a Food Pantry to fight hunger and support families in need in Prince William County. Twenty-one schools now host on-site pantries (as of fall 2026) stocked with essentials like rice, cereal, canned goods, and even seasonal items—making it easier for students and families to access food discreetly and with dignity. 

Why it matters:
Nearly 16,000 students in our community face food insecurity, and Prince William has one of the highest hunger rates in the region. This program ensures that no child has to learn on an empty stomach.

How it works:

  • Pantries are managed by school staff and parent liaisons.
  • Families can request assistance and pick up pre-packed bags during flexible hours.
  • All costs are covered by grants and donations, thanks to partners like the C.H.O.W. Wagon, Capital Area Food Bank, Prince William County Community Foundation (PWCCF), and local businesses.

Schools with Food Pantries:

  • Reagan Middle School
  • Mullen Elementary School
  • Sudley Elementary School
  • Unity Braxton Middle School
  • Unity Reed High School
  • Parkside Middle School
  • Hylton High School
  • Enterprise Elementary School
  • Minnieville Elementary School
  • Bel Air Elementary School
  • Henderson Elementary School
  • Freedom High School
  • Lake Ridge Middle School
  • Occoquan Elementary School
  • Buckland Mills Elementary School
  • Potomac Middle School
  • Triangle Elementary School
  • Independence Non-Traditional School
  • Rippon Middle School
  • Springwoods Elelmentary School
  • Woodbridge Elementary School 

What’s next:
With demand growing, we plan to continue to expand to more schools. Schools interested in being a part of the next round of pantries should scroll down to learn more.

 

 

How to Support our Food Pantries

Donations for our food pantries are can be given in two ways: via monetary donation, or by purchaing items through our Amazon Wish List.  

 

Monetary Donations:
  • To use a credit card, visit our SPARK Donation Page. Under the section labeled "Areas of Focus & Designation" please choose Food Security from the dropdown to ensure your donation will be used for our food pantries. 
  • If you'd like to send a check, please make the check out to "PWCS Education Foundation" and write "Food Security" on the memo line to ensure your donation will be used for our food pantries. 
    • Checks can be mailed to: SPARK, P.O. Box 389, Manassas, VA 20108

Amazon Wish List:

To purchase items using our Amazon Wish List, click the button below. 

Amazon Wish List

 

 

Schools Interested in Pantries

Schools not currently a part of the PWCS Food Pantry Pilot who are interested in receiving more information about starting a pantry in their school should fill out the Interest Form below. A contact from SPARK and/or the Community and Business Engagement Office will then be in touch with next steps and information. 

 School Food Pantry Interest Form

 

Additional Food Pantries throughout Prince William County

Prince William County and Manassas have multiple food pantries where residents can get help. A list pantries and food assistance programs with additional information is availble by clicking the button below.

Greater Prince William & Manassas Food Pantries List

 

 

Prince William County Public Schools, in partnership with Prince William County Community Foundation, the C.H.O.W Wagon, Amazon and other partners, have established 10 food pantries inside various PWCS schools emphasizing the importance of serving students and families in need. C.D. Hylton High School hosted a ceremony and ribbon cutting to officially open the food pantries.

November 6, 2025