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This holiday season needy Delawareans will receive nutritious meals of venison made possible by local deer hunters. The Delaware Sportsmen Against Hunger program is on track to donate enough venison to charitable organizations to provide more than 175,000 meals.
"This is the fifteenth year that the Delaware Sportsmen Against Hunger program has provided venison for families who are experiencing difficult times," said Greg Moore, DNREC’s Wildlife Administrator. "Since the program chapter was formed in 1992, nearly one million meals have been served. We are grateful for the tremendous support of Delaware’s hunters willing to share their harvest and help fight hunger in our state."
This year’s donations are expected to exceed the 44,400 pounds of venison donated in 2006. Hunters drop off deer at state locations or participating butcher shops where it is cleaned and prepared. The venison is then distributed by DNREC’s Division of Fish and Wildlife to twenty-five charitable organizations throughout the state.
Deer hunting season closes January 31, so hunters have several more opportunities to participate in the program. Donation locations for hunters include the Augustine Wildlife Area in New Castle County, the Woodland Beach Wildlife Area in Kent County and three locations in Sussex County – Redden State Forest, Assawoman Wildlife Area and Trap Pond State Park. In addition, successful hunters can take their deer to any participating private butcher shop. Volunteers are also needed to assist with the logistics of distribution.
Deer hunters and individuals willing to volunteer for the program are encouraged to contact Wayne Lehman at 302-284-1077. Hunters not lucky enough to harvest a deer are encouraged to help the program by donating money. Funds donated will be used for direct program expenses and to buy additional food. No donations will be used for administrative expenses.
To request a Delaware Sportsmen Against Hunger brochure, contact Michael Friel (302) 834-8433, or for more information, visit DNREC’s web site, www.fw.delaware.gov/Info/SportsmenAgainstHunger.htm.
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