Thanks to the generosity of Georgia’s hunting community, the Hunters for the Hungry program has already delivered 86,426 pounds of donated venison, equivalent to 345,704 servings of high-protein, low-fat meals to food-insecure families across the state. Although deer season ended in January, we’re looking to add more pounds to the total through Georgia’s farm permit program with hopes of reaching the goal of 145,000 pounds for the 2024-2025 season.

Launched in 1993, Hunters for the Hungry connects Georgia hunters with local food banks to turn excess venison into a vital resource for families in need. “There are a lot of deer in Georgia, and a lot of food insecurity,” said GWF President and CEO Mike Worley. “This program represents the best of Georgia’s hunting heritage — conservation, community, and compassion.”

With support from the Georgia General Assembly and the Department of Natural Resources’ Wildlife Resources Division, the program grew dramatically in 2024 — expanding from 6 processors to 54 active processors and counting. Additional funding is allowing for the purchase of mobile coolers and other equipment to handle more donations and reach more communities.

Program Coordinator Lee Walker emphasized the need for more partners to keep pace with demand: “We’re currently accepting new processors for the 2025–2026 season. We encourage hunters and farmers to recommend their trusted local processors so we can invite them to join the program.”

The program is looking for help from hunters, farmers, and processors to finish this season strong and continue building in preparation for the fall. For more information, or to apply to become a processor, visit gwf.org/ghfth. Through Georgia Hunters for the Hungry, hunters are not just managing wildlife — they’re feeding neighbors and strengthening communities.