Middlesbrough's Ashley Fletcher leads call in the fight against child poverty and echoes Manchester United's Marcus Rashford

MFC Foundation has supplied 25,000 food parcels since March and will provide another 1,000 parcels for distribution, a continuation of the excellent work being done within the local community.

Fletcher hopes businesses on Teesside will get behind the campaign and has echoed calls from his former Manchester United team-mate Marcus Rashford in the fight against child poverty.

Earlier this week, Government ministers ruled out extending free meals beyond term time following a passionate plea from Rashford.

The Manchester United and England striker is still pushing for change and has been sharing tweets from businesses and councils from across the country who are offering free meals for those in need.

Fletcher is fully behind the campaign and is hoping to make a difference on a local level.

“The MFC Foundation have been delivering food parcels throughout the pandemic and have done an amazing job,” said Fletcher.

“What we need now is more support. Marcus has really led the way with this on a national basis, and as a football club we are determined to play our part on a local level by offering support where we can across Teesside.

“There’s families who need help on our own doorstep, and we’re asking people to come forward and support the Foundation in tackling child poverty in our region.

“There is no overnight solution, but we have to do what we can and act now.”

Head of MFC Foundation Helena Bowman said: “We have such an important role to play within our local community and being there to support the people of Teesside.

“We have been providing and delivering food parcels for some months now, but the situation needs continually addressing.”

Anyone wishing to support the campaign can donate money to the MFC Foundation appeal here or text to donate

Text FREESCHOOLMEALS 5 to 70460 to donate £5. Texts cost £5 plus one standard rate message.

Text FREESCHOOLMEALS 10 to 70460 to donate £10. Texts cost £10 plus one standard rate message.

Text FREESCHOOLMEALS 15 to 70460 to donate £15. Texts cost £15 plus one standard rate message.

Every penny received will go directly to provide food parcels in the region.

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