Supports for Families During Federal Government Shutdown

October 3rd, 2025

Update Nov. 6, 2025 – Details on prekindergarten eligibility added. See below.

As many Howard County Public School System (HCPSS) families are impacted by the federal government shutdown, we understand that many people in our community may experience financial hardship or uncertainty. HCPSS remains committed to supporting all students and families during this time.

Howard County families who have lost pay due to the shutdown may apply for the Free and Reduced-Priced Meals (FARMs) program, and the HCPSS Food and Nutrition Office will determine their eligibility status within 24-48 hours. Families that previously did not qualify for the FARMs program could now be eligible due to current loss of income.

Families that are adversely impacted, including those who do not receive FARMs assistance, will have the remainder of the school year to pay off any meal balances incurred during the government shutdown.

HCPSS recognizes that many students may be suffering fear or anxiety about their family’s current financial situation. Student Services staff at each school are prepared and available to assist students at any time during the school day. Numerous resources are also available for families on the HCPSS website, and other supports are available through the Howard County Department of Community Resources and Services.

HCPSS Pre-K Program

Families impacted by the federal government shutdown and who did not/would not previously have qualified for the HCPSS Pre-K program may now be eligible due to their current loss of income. For qualifying families, the Pre-K program would be offered at no cost for the remainder of the school year.

Please submit a completed application and the required income documentation to hcpss_pk@hcpss.org to determine eligibility.

Information on the HCPSS Pre-K program is available online. Questions may be directed to the Office of Early Childhood Program by email at hcpss_pk@hcpss.org or by phone at 410-313-6836.