Wisconsin’s deer donation program gives hunters a chance to enjoy their sport while also helping food pantries.
Wisconsin’s gun deer season begins Saturday, and the Department of Natural Resources is reminding hunters just how far one deer can go to feed families in need.
In a partnership that goes back two decades, hunters can take their deer to a participating meat processor.
The venison produced then goes to help feed the hungry.
"What this provides us with is a very very significant source of proteins for our guest who come into out facility," said David Phelps Food Pantry Director for the Neighbor's Place is Wausau, a participant in the program.
Phelps says the fresh meat helps feed more families especially around the holidays.
“It gives us a variety… something different that we don’t normally have. If you live in Wisconsin, a lot of people enjoy having venison in their refrigerator or freezer.”
For hunters interested in more information on the deer donation program, go to the DNR website and search for deer donation.
Over the last 20 years, hunters have donated 94-thousand deer.
