Prince George’s County Public Schools (PGCPS) honored Women’s History Month with the grand opening of the Jaguar General Store at William Wirt Middle School on March 26 — a powerful collaboration between women-led organizations and the school community to support students and families facing economic hardship.
Stocked with toiletries, clothing, non-perishable food, diapers, and vouchers for prescription reading glasses, the store offers essential items at no cost to families. The initiative was made possible by Play Pits — the nation’s largest Black woman-owned deodorant brand founded by William Wirt alumna Chantel Powell — and Project Hygiene, a nonprofit dedicated to youth health and wellness. Together, they contributed more than $7,000 to fund the launch and ensure five restocking deliveries throughout the school year.
“Our message to students is simple: you can achieve anything,” said Rhonda Simley, Principal of William Wirt Middle School. “The Jaguar General Store is a safe space that empowers students and families with resources to thrive.”
The celebration also spotlighted student entrepreneurs through a “Shark Tank”-style pitch session. Eighth-grader Asle Calderon won the competition with her business, Flowers by Asle, featuring “eternal bouquets” and bouquet pens. “I wasn’t expecting this opportunity,” she said. “One day, I hope to open my own flower shop.”
Project Hygiene CEO Anshia Crooms, who donated more than 1,000 toiletries to the store, emphasized the impact on helping relieve the burden on everyday families.
“Supporting our children in this way is what makes our work so meaningful,” Crooms said.
Superintendent Millard House II praised the collaboration. “This event reflects the strength of our community schools model — where educators, families, and local businesses come together to support student success,” he said. “We’re grateful to Play Pits and Project Hygiene for investing in our students and inspired by the entrepreneurial spirit of our young people.”
For Powell, the moment was deeply personal. “Returning to my middle school means the world to me,” she said. “My greatest hope is that students see what’s possible — that they believe in themselves and pursue their dreams.”
As a designated community school, William Wirt continues to serve as a hub for critical resources, helping families access support and students explore new opportunities.
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