Manchester United star Marcus Rashford has taken hunger relief efforts into his own hands after lawmakers refused to offer assistance. Earlier this year, Rashford had proposed putting together a task force committed to providing free meals to 1.5 million hungry children in the U.K. over the holidays. His efforts gained traction and earned the support of the country's Labour Party. Arriving in the House of Commons on Wednesday, the proposal was voted down by a vote of 261-322. Prime Minister Boris Johnson was among the 322 politicians who voted against the proposal. Undeterred, Rashford took matters in to his own hands.
Rashford has moved his hunger relief efforts away from the House of Commons and towards the streets of the U.K. Using his Twitter account with 3.6 million followers, he began retweeting restaurants, cafes and bars that would offer free food to children over the holidays. Joining in, the mayors of Liverpool and Greater Manchester also pledged to offer meals to hungry children over the holidays.
“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," Khandoker, an Indian restaurant in England, tweeted after learning of Rashford's movement.
This movement is deeply personal for Rashford. Growing up, he and his family relied on donations and food banks. In a position to give back at the highest level, he is inspired by those who have joined in his efforts.
“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 tweeted.
As of this morning, Rashford has garnered the support of more than three dozen restaurants. With two months left until Christmas, Rashford will likely reach his goal of feeding 1.5 million hungry children.
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