Skip to content

Fauquier Education Foundation and FCPS School Nutrition Issue Inaugural Meal Debt Support Grants

EducationPress ReleaseGeneral News ArticleCommunityHuman Interest




Fauquier Education Foundation and FCPS School Nutrition Issue Inaugural Meal Debt Support Grants
More than $6,300 in Meal Debt Paid to Student Accounts
 
Warrenton, VA—The Fauquier Education Foundation (FEF) and Fauquier County Public Schools’ (FCPS) Nutrition Department are proud to announce the successful distribution of their inaugural Meal Debt Support grants. Covering the reporting period from August to December 2025, the program awarded $6,357.30 in direct financial assistance to alleviate student meal debt across the division.

In its first cycle, the Foundation reviewed 31 applications, ultimately awarding grants to 22 families. These funds were applied directly toward student meal accounts, providing immediate relief to households navigating the costs of school nutrition.

The impact of this program goes beyond simple accounting. For one recipient, the grant arrived during a critical life transition.

“I found out about this grant during a very challenging time,” the parent shared. “Receiving the approval email was an amazing feeling. A weight was lifted off my shoulders. Life happens, and when it does, it’s heartwarming to know that programs like this make the challenging times a little easier.” The recipient encouraged other families to seek help without hesitation: “Do not be embarrassed or feel ashamed…I am forever grateful!”

The program was designed to balance high-impact relief for small balances with meaningful partial support for families facing larger debts. The average award amount was approximately $309, with $785 as the highest amount awarded. In addition, there were five families who requested support for two or more children.

While 31 applications were reviewed, nine resulted in a $0 award. In these instances, the Foundation reached out to applicants multiple times for necessary information; however, because the required documentation was not provided, funds could not be distributed. This ensures that grants are distributed according to established program criteria and directed toward verified needs.

“Our goal with this inaugural launch was to provide tangible relief that directly impacts a student's day-to-day experience,” said Fauquier Education Foundation Executive Director Nancy Griffin-Bonnaire. “By reducing or eliminating these balances, we are helping families focus on their child’s education while providing nutritious meals at school,” added FCPS School Nutrition Director, SueAnn Fox.

The next cycle of grants will be reviewed and awarded at the end of the 2025–2026 school year. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis. To learn more about the grant program or to apply, visit fauquiereducationfoundation.org.

The Fauquier Education Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to its mission of initiating, magnifying, and sustaining unique educational opportunities within Fauquier County Public Schools. All donations are tax-deductible as allowed by law.
 
# # #
 

Fauquier Education Foundation and FCPS School Nutrition Issue Inaugural Meal Debt Support Grants