(Press Release) Settle the Debt’s first major fundraising campaign as a nonprofit netted over $40,000 to pay lunch debt bills at 23 Prince William County Schools.
A total of 18 elementary schools and two schools serving kindergarten through 8th-grade students (called “Traditional” schools) had their lunch debts paid in full.
Three high schools in the county had a large portion of their lunch debt wiped clean, alleviating the lunch debt for many Prince William families. As a result of donations from local businesses and community members, the organization’s first-ever holiday fundraising campaign raised $40,600 to help Prince William County schoolchildren.
A check for $39,600 was delivered to Prince William County Public Schools on Friday, Dec. 20.
The remaining funds will be used to pay off school lunch debts at Pennington Traditional School, and the additional to ensure all 20 elementary/traditional schools are fully paid.
Settle the Debt started in April 2017 by Adelle Settle as a campaign to pay off the lunch debt of schools in Prince William County, VA. To date, Settle the Debt has paid off approximately $90,000 of lunch debt for county schools and worked with Delegate Danica Roem (HD-13) to introduce legislation to eliminate lunch shaming in Virginia schools. As a non-profit organization, Settle the Debt hopes to pay off more lunch debt and ultimately eliminate lunch shaming in Virginia schools.
Recent Stories
The Stafford County Simply Perfect Wedding Expo is coming up on February 8, 2025, at the Holiday Inn and Conference Center in Fredericksburg! This event is a must for couples planning their big day, featuring top wedding vendors, venues, florists, caterers, photographers, and more—all in one place.
If you’re a wedding professional, vendor opportunities are available, but spaces are limited. Don’t miss your chance to connect with engaged couples ready to plan their special day!
Prince William County Sheriff Glendell Hill announced that online applications are open for the Virginia Sheriffs’ Institute (VSI) Scholarship Program for the 2025-2026 school year.
The scholarship provides financial assistance to students attending Virginia colleges and universities who are majoring in criminal justice, excluding those pursuing a law degree or legal career. Applicants must obtain a letter of recommendation from their resident sheriff before applying.
Prince William County residents must contact the Sheriff’s Office by April 4, 2025, to schedule an appointment with Sheriff Hill for the recommendation. The deadline to submit the online application and required documents is May 1, 2025. More details and application materials are available on the VSI website.
Prince William County has scrapped its $300 million Route 28 Bypass project, leaving residents and officials debating the next steps for traffic relief. The project, which would have taken 70 homes, faced rising costs, land acquisition hurdles, and a lack of Fairfax County support. Manassas Mayor Michelle Davis Younger criticized the decision, saying her city is “stuck in the middle.” Meanwhile, State Sen. Danica Roem is pushing forward with $62.5 million in intersection improvements. A town hall on Route 28’s future will be held Feb. 26 at Manassas Park City Hall. Read more about what’s next for local transportation.
A pedestrian crash in Nokesville claimed the life of a Manassas man, while Stafford deputies used drones and SWAT tactics to track down an armed suspect who fled into the woods. In another unusual case, an intoxicated man mistook a Bible study for a human trafficking operation, forcing his way inside and threatening attendees. Additional incidents include a DUI arrest, multiple fraud cases, stolen vehicles, and public intoxication. Authorities urge residents to remain vigilant and report suspicious activity. Click the headline for the full story.
Travel to French soil and join us for a night filled with two of the most beloved French traditions—no plane ticket required! ?
On January 25th, we invite you to experience the magic of Galette des Rois, a 700-year-old tradition celebrated across France throughout the entire month of January (and even beyond!). This sweet, almond-filled puff pastry topped with a golden crown isn’t just a treat—it’s a celebration! The lucky person who finds the fève (a porcelain charm hidden in one of the slices) becomes the King or Queen for the Day, and don’t worry—there will be plenty of royalty to go around! ??
But that’s not all! In France, Les Voeux (New Year’s wishes) continue throughout January, often accompanied by Champagne and good cheer. We’re bringing that festive spirit to you, with a lively evening packed with French food, wine, and music.
What’s in store:
Experience the passion and drama of Puccini’s “The Girl from the Golden West”.
Featuring special guest musicians from The Chesapeake Youth Orchestra,
this performance brings Puccini’s masterpiece to life with an extraordinary cast.
