LOCAL sports club, Future of Football FC, has praised the support of the community for its help to provide free packed lunches to young people in need this half term.
The local club has received donations of food from local supermarket Asda, and a fundraising page raised nearly £400 – enough money to buy lunches for the week.
“Thank you to everyone who has donated, you are amazing!” said Luke Ballinger and James Stapleton, founders of Future of Football FC. “It really is amazing what can be done together! What a community.”
Free takeaway packed lunches are available for collection from the club’s home at the Bowerhill Sports Field, every lunchtime, 11am to 12.30pm, until this Friday 30th October.
The idea came after the Government voted against extending the free school meals scheme, a plan proposed by Manchester United footballer, Marcus Rashford.
Local MP, Michelle Donelan, has defended her voting in the Commons last week against the scheme.
“No need to book, Just turn up and collect from Bowerhill Sports Field, Melksham between 11am and 12.30pm,” said Luke and James. “Alternatively send us your address and we will drop off and leave on your doorstep – anyone can private message us or email us in confidence with a delivery address at hello@futureoffootball.co.uk – even if it’s for a friend or loved one (no names are required).
“How can we honestly stand by with the thought of young children going hungry?” said Luke and James. “The work of Marcus Rashford and other businesses who have responded has inspired us to get involved and do our bit for the community.”
For more information about Future of Football FC, visit their website: www.futureoffootball.co.uk
The local club launched its campaign after the government voted against a proposal to offer free school meals during holidays until Easter 2021 – a decision which has come under increasing fire in recent days.
Marcus Rashford – who this year successfully forced a government U-turn on free school meal vouchers for eligible pupils over the summer holidays – is again calling on the government to change their minds.
