Rashford 'blown away' by grassroots pledges to feed kids

Restaurants, cafes and even some local governments across England have mounted a grassroots effort inspired by soccer star Marcus Rashford to feed students during the upcoming school break.

Pledges to provide free lunches started rolling in after the Manchester United striker's bid to extend food vouchers over school holidays until Easter was voted down in the House of Commons.

The 22-year-old Rashford vowed to continue his fight and was joined by local businesses offering everything from beans on toast to chicken nuggets and fruits.

"Blown away by news of local businesses stepping up to fill the voucher scheme deficit during the October half term. Selflessness, kindness, togetherness, this is the England I know," Rashford wrote on Twitter late Thursday, adding an emoji of the English flag.

On Friday, the England international fired off a stream of Twitter posts marking the locations of businesses offering their support, and he embedded their social media messages, which urged parents not to feel ashamed to seek help. Many offered to keep requests confidential.

Khandoker, an Indian restaurant about five miles (eight kilometers) from Old Trafford, said parents can send a direct message on Twitter.

"We don't want any child to got to bed hungry in Manchester. Voting against free school meals for kids in poverty is inhumane. If there are any parents struggling to feed (their) kids don't be ashamed. DM us we will always be happy to put together a hot meal," the restaurant wrote.