‘Texas Hunters for the Hungry’ Seeking Donations

Here is a really cool program that you don't hear much about. These fine people are helping to feed the less fortunate in and around our community.

Hunters help local communities each deer season by donating deer to the Texas Hunters for the Hungry Program. Last year, hunters donated 152,962 pounds of venison, resulting in more than 600,000 servings. Of that, 1,701 pounds were donated in Victoria County alone.

According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, one out of every five households in Texas struggles to afford food. Food assistance agencies such as food banks, food pantries, soup kitchens and shelters play an important role in helping families fill the nutrition gap. Obtaining adequate protein is often difficult for low income families and individuals. As a result, venison donations are a favorite with both food assistance providers and the clients they serve as it is low in fat and high in protein.

If you are a hunter, consider adding Hunters for the Hungry to your checklist as you prepare for deer season. It is easy to participate. Locate a participating meat processor; drop off your tagged, legally harvested white-tail or mule deer; and pay a nominal fee to cover basic processing costs. A receipt is issued for tax purposes.

The meat processor grinds the venison into burger for pick-up by a local food assistance provider. This season, Hunters for the Hungry is working with Country Slaughter House and Harwell's Custom Processing in Victoria to accept venison donations.