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The Tennessee Conservative [By Olivia Lupia] –
A unique program through the Tennessee Wildlife Federation allows local hunters to donate venison to local food banks and soup kitchens to help provide fresh protein for families in need.
With the federal government having been shut down for over 40 days and SNAP benefits being significantly impacted, the “Hunters for the Hungry” program is being promoted both to encourage hunters to participate and for residents to take advantage of this resource.
“Hunters for the Hungry” allows a hunter to bring a field-dressed deer to one of over 60 certified wild game processing plants to have the meat processed and packaged free of charge. The fresh venison is then distributed to local food banks, soup kitchens, and shelters to feed hungry families across Tennessee, all while helping the Wildlife Federation manage deer populations and promote responsible stewardship.
Just one deer yields about 168 servings of lean protein, a huge boon to those needing fresh meat. Since the program’s founding in 1998, it has given away more than 10.5 million servings of donated venison. Last year more than 163,000 servings were donated, a record amount as communities surged to support those in need.
Though the federal government shutdown appears to be drawing to a close, food pantries and banks are still asking for additional support as shutdown ripple effects continue and SNAP benefits remain delayed or reduced.
Municipalities are helping to spread awareness of the program for both hunters and residents to continue putting nutritious food into hungry hands.
“Our working families are feeling the strain,” said Clarksville Mayor Joe Pitts. “We’re asking our local sportsmen to once again step up for Clarksville. Each deer donated can feed dozens of neighbors, and together, we can make sure no family goes without healthy, high-quality protein this winter.”
Michelle Austin, Director of the City of Clarksville’s Neighborhood and Community Services Department added, “Clarksville’s hunters like myself have always had big hearts and a deep respect for the land. When we donate through this program, we’re doing more than harvesting responsibly; we’re helping feed our community. Together, we can fill more freezers and more plates across our city.”
To find a participating deer processor, hunters can enter their zip code or search by region on the “Hunters for the Hungry” website.
About the Author: Olivia Lupia is a political refugee from Colorado who now calls Tennessee home. A proud follower of Christ, she views all political happenings through a Biblical lens and aims to utilize her knowledge and experience to educate and equip others. Olivia is an outspoken conservative who has run for local office, managed campaigns, and been highly involved with state & local GOPs, state legislatures, and other grassroots organizations and movements. Olivia can be reached at olivia@tennesseeconservativenews.com.
