Indiana Conservation Officers are encouraging Hoosier sportsmen to donate part of their 2014-2015 deer harvest to help feed the hungry.
The Sportsmen’s Benevolent Fund program, administered by the DNR Law Enforcement Division, provided 269,892 high protein venison meals to help feed hungry Hoosiers during the 2013-2014 deer hunting season. Indiana deer hunters donated 67,473 pounds of venison.
“This program provides an opportunity for our hunters to demonstrate their concern for their fellow man, allows the DNR another management tool for our deer population and provides nutritious meals for those in need,” said DNR Law Enforcement Division Director Danny East. “It is a triple win situation.”
The Sportsmen’s Benevolent Fund received public funding during the 2013 legislative session through a bill presented by senator’s Mike Crider of Greenfield and Brent Steele of Bedford.
Hoosiers Feeding the Hungry, Mother Hubbard’s Cupboard and Dubois County Sportsmen’s Club have developed a network of participating butcher shops throughout the state. The organizations also have coordinated with food banks serving every county to pick up and deliver the venison. All venison is ground into burger and provided in 2 pound packages.
“Thanks to contributions made by Indiana DNR Law Enforcement and deer hunters, we will be able to provide nutritious protein to hunger relief agencies in Indiana”, said Debra Treesh, founder of Hoosiers Feeding the Hungry. “Protein is the hardest commodity for the food banks to get.”
“Fighting against hunger in Indiana is a concern for us all and it makes me proud that the DNR and Indiana deer hunters are working together to overcome this need,” said DNR Director Cameron Clark.
A video about the fund may be viewed at http://www.youtube.com/watch?list=PLCUPnu6rbUT_hs8QRfnuXwcgE09eYcE0e&v=vQoGTR0WW7U
