The DNR's Hunters Feeding Michigan program is already making inroads into efforts to feed needy families through hunters' donations of harvested deer. Recently, the program yielded another deer-related benefit: Early last week, five dozen pairs of insulated deerskin gloves were delivered to the Shelter of Flint (a provider of emergency shelter and transitional housing in Flint, Michigan) to share with its clients.
"We are grateful for the support, and the gloves are integral to helping those without a home in this brutal, cold weather," said Shelly Hoffman, Shelter of Flint vice president and chief operating officer.
The idea started with a conversation. Joe Presgrove, Hunters Feeding Michigan program specialist, approached Grand Rapids Hide Co. after learning the company worked with a number of participating HFM processors: "I just facilitated the conversation," he said, "and they took it from there and agreed to work together to get the gloves.
"While deer processors typically will sell hides from hunter-harvested deer to companies like Grand Rapids Hide, in this case a few deer processors decided to get donated gloves instead of money for the hides."
Grand Rapids Hide Co. is a locally owned and operated Michigan business and a trusted name in the hide industry since the late 1800s. It receives donated deer hides from HFM processors throughout the deer season.
"We wanted to partner with the Hunters Feeding Michigan program by providing warm gloves to distribute to our neighbors in need," said Grand Rapids Hide Co. owner David Hendrix. "We can make a positive impact at our shelters and warming centers."
The palms of the gloves are made of a deerskin suede, and the insides are insulated with a Thinsulate material. All white-tail hides used in the gloves come from HFM-donated deer and other U.S. sources.
"Michigan hunters know well the uncomfortable feeling of having cold hands in the deer stand or blind, and how much a good pair of warm gloves can make a difference," Presgrove said. "This initiative wouldn't be possible without the generosity of hunters, program processors and Grand Rapids Hide Co."
The DNR received 12 dozen pairs of gloves. Presgrove said the remaining seven dozen will go to shelters in other areas of the state, yet to be determined.
Since 2007, Hunters Feeding Michigan has contributed more than 3.4 million servings of ground venison to those in need throughout the state. Each deer donated (at no cost to the hunter) will provide an estimated 160 high-protein, nutritious meals.
Questions? Contact Joe Presgrove at 517-643-3809.