Skip to main content
Search Results

Premier League footballer Rashford backs food voucher scheme

16th Jun 2020 - 08:28
Image
food vouchers scheme marcus rashford
Abstract
Manchester United and England footballer Marcus Rashford has taken the initiative to write to the Government asking it to reconsider plans not to extend the current food voucher scheme into the summer holidays.

The player, who says he and his family had relied on breakfast clubs and free school meals when he was younger, has weighed into the debate about continuing to help pupils on free school meals through holiday periods.

The Government did extend the scheme through this year’s Easter break and the subsequent half-term, but had signaled it was going to ease back in the summer and rely on existing holiday club provision that it was already committed to.

In his letter, Rashford said: “The Government has taken a ‘whatever it takes’ approach to the economy – I’m asking you today to extend that same thinking  to protecting all vulnerable children across England.

“I encourage you to hear their pleas and find your humanity. Please reconsider your decision to cancel the food voucher scheme over the summer holiday period and guarantee the extension.

“This is England in 2020, and this is an issue that needs urgent assistance.”

Rashford has already been responsible for raising £20m to help food charity FareShare distribute food to those in need.

 

Category
Written by
David Foad