U-turn on free meals after star’s campaign
A ‘COVID summer school fund’ is being set up by the government to help feed children during the holidays, after a campaign by footballer Marcus Rashford.
Children eligible for free school meals in term time in England will get a six-week voucher, Downing Street has now said.
The 22-year-old Manchester United forward had called for a Government U-turn on plans not to offer meals during the holidays.
Prime Minister Boris Johnson welcomed Mr Rashford’s “contribution to the debate around poverty”.
The support works out as about £15 a week per recipient and will cost the taxpayer about £120m.
In an emotional open letter to MPs posted on Monday, Mr Rashford drew on his own experience of relying on free school meals and food banks growing up.
In response to the government’s announcement, the footballer said on Twitter: “Just look at what we can do when we come together, THIS is England in 2020.”
The campaign was backed by MPs across the house, including many within Yorkshire.
MPs Barry Sheerman, Jason McCartney and Tracy Brabin in Huddersfield all gave their backing to Mr Rashford. Mr Rashford had already raised £20m for charity FareShare to feed three million children a week during the coronavirus lockdown.
The England international has won many plaudits for his tireless fundraising efforts and campaign work in recent weeks.
Mr Rashford has written a statement addressed “to all MPs” thanking them for giving families “one less thing to worry about”.
“This was never about me or you, this was never about politics, this was a cry out for help from vulnerable parents all over the country and I simply provided a platform for their voices to be heard,” he wrote in the statement shared on social media.
“I stand proud today knowing that 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.”
Huddersfield MP Mr Sheerman said he had been inspired by the open letter written by the player to the Government.
Batley and Spen MP Ms Brabin said Mr Rashford’s letter laid out “the harsh reality” facing millions of children across the country.
And Colne Valley MP Mr McCartney referred to “a powerful letter from an inspirational young man” adding, “I fully support you.”