Patrice Evra has pledged to match up to £250,000 of donations to provide meals for NHS workers amid the coronavirus outbreak.
The former Manchester United defender is hoping to raise £500,000 in partnership with Lineage Logistics, a food storage company which aims to send 100 million meals across the world to those who need them most during the pandemic.
Evra spent eight years at Old Trafford, winning five Premier League titles and the Champions League, and half a season with West Ham United before retiring in 2018.
And the 38-year-old claims he decided to act after speaking with staff at two hospitals.
"It was when I spoke to staff at Hillingdon Hospital in London and at Manchester Royal Infirmary that I realised we should do more to support the unsung heroes – the cleaners, porters, security staff, without whom the hospitals would not function," Evra said.
"The work they are doing is vital, incredibly tough and often heartbreaking. They are working on the frontline while the rest of the country stays at home and we’ve got to give our support however we can.
"I am proud to partner with a company like Lineage Logistics that is stepping up to help launch this important project.”
Money can be donated via Evra's Just Giving page and will go to Manchester Foundation Trust Charity and The Hillingdon Hospitals Charity.
Meanwhile, Manchester United players have penned their support to the Players Together fund to donate money to the NHS.
The club itself has donated equipment and supplies to Salford Royal Hospital and Manchester United Foundation vehicles are on hand with volunteer drivers to aid local NHS courier operations.
Last week, Old Trafford exhibited the message 'NHS United' during the weekly clap for carers which occurs on Thursday evening to give thanks for key workers amid the outbreak.
