This past season 4,280 deer hunters shared nearly 199,000 pounds of venison to help feed hungry Missourians in the Share the Harvest program.
Since the program was started in 1992, Share the Harvest has provided about 3.7 million pounds of lean, healthy venison to help feed hungry Missourians. Processing fees are covered entirely or in part by numerous local sponsors, along with statewide sponsors.
The Conservation Federation of Missouri and the Department of Conservation coordinate the program and assist deer hunters in donating their extra venison to participating meat processors throughout the state.
Donated venison is then ground and placed in single one-pound packages before being given to food banks and food pantries for distribution to residents in need of food assistance.
“Hunters remain the driving force behind this popular program that helps feed our fellow Missourians who are in need,” said Sara Pauley, MDC director. “We sincerely thank the thousands of deer hunters who support Share the Harvest, along with the many participating meat processors and sponsors.”
Share the Harvest coordinates the efforts of thousands of hunters, more than 100 participating meat processors, numerous local supporting organizations, and about a dozen statewide sponsors.
Share the Harvest is a partnership of citizens, agencies, organizations, and corporations working together to provide healthy, protein-rich meat to those who may otherwise go without, according to CFM Executive Director Brandon Butler. “Hunters across Missouri should be proud of this outstanding program.”
Statewide sponsors include MDC, CFM, Shelter Insurance, Bass Pro Shops, Missouri Chapter Safari Club International, Missouri Chapter National Wild Turkey Federation, Midway USA Inc., Missouri Food Banks Association, United Bowhunters of Missouri, Missouri Trappers Association, the Missouri Hunter Education Instructors Association, and the Walmart Foundation.
For more information on Share the Harvest, click here.