Rashford Campaign Secures Meals For 1.3 Million Vulnerable Children
The UK government will fund free school meal vouchers over the summer after a campaign led by Manchester United and England striker Marcus Rashford precipitated a policy U-turn.
Some 1.3 million children will be provided with meals throughout the summer holidays, where normally the scheme would only apply during term time.
In a letter to MPs, Rashford pointed out that the coronavirus pandemic had placed extra pressure on low-income families, also highlighting the fact that nine out of 30 children in any given classroom are living in poverty.
The England star, who had been a recipient of free school meals himself, thanked the government for overturning its decision not to continue the funding throughout the summer.
“This was never about never about politics, this was a cry for help from vulnerable parents across the country and I simply provided a platform for their voices to be heard.
“I stand proud today knowing we have listened, and we have done what is right. There is still a long way to go but I am thankful to you all that we have given these families just one less thing to worry about tonight.
“The wellbeing of our children should ALWAYS be a priority.”
Fantastic work @MarcusRashford, making Manchester proud https://t.co/b3MfszHzxf
— Manchester City (@ManCity) June 16, 2020
Rashford’s campaign was praised widely across the sporting world, with the likes of teammates Juan Mata and rivals Manchester City sending their support for the United striker on social media.
