Footballer Marcus’s praise for charity volunteer Rogan, 11
Rashford tweet joy for youngster
AN INSPIRATIONAL 11-year-old charity volunteer is on cloud nine after his hard work was recognised by his idol Marcus Rashford.
Rogan Morrill has been an active member of Gosport charity Jacob’s Well Care Centre since he was able to walk and is always volunteering in the food bank or furniture warehouse.
Despite numerous personal challenges including living with rare genetic disorder Cornelia de Lange syndrome, Rogan helps to prepare food parcels, load the van and stack shelves at the familyrun charity.
When asked why he works so hard for charity, Rogan said: ‘Because it's what we do in our family. Jacob’s Well is there to help everybody and when I'm 16 I will work on the vans delivering all the food.’
He helped make more than 200 lunches during the October half term to feed children in Gosport, inspired by footballer and activist Marcus Rashford.
Manchester United fan Rogan’s hard work was recognised by a visit from the police force in Gosport, which led to Marcus Rashford tweeting his pride for Rogan’s work.
The kindhearted youngster said: ‘I didn't believe it was real, it makes me feel proud. He works with FareShare like we do. I wish I could meet him.’
His mum, Cherish Pottinger, said: ‘It really amazes me all that my little boy suffers from daily and he still has such a strong desire to help others.’ Fareham and Gosport police community support officer Kieran Howard, who went to visit Rogan, printed out the tweet from Marcus Rashford and posted it to the excited volunteer.
Kieran said: ‘We were blown away with the incredible job Rogan has been doing at Jacobs Well’s The Store Cupboard, despite being only 11 years old and facing many personal challenges himself. He is an absolute credit to himself and to the community.’
Rogan is also setting up a children’s pen pal service for lockdown by sending out stamped envelopes to children who have used the food bank to write letters to Rogan and his brothers.
Visit gofundme.com/f/rogans-bee-happy-packs-jwcc to donate towards Rogan’s Bee Happy packs.
I didn't believe it was real, it makes me feel proud. I wish I could meet him. Rogan Morrill