THE FOLLOWING IS A UNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS EXTENSION RELEASE
Hunters came out in full force to harvest more than 300 deer, totaling 12,187 pounds of venison, for the 2023-2024 Illinois Deer Donation Program. The harvested deer were donated to more than 50 food pantries across a 16-county territory in east-central Illinois, providing 48,748 meals of nutritious protein to individuals and families.
Like other groceries, the cost of meat has risen in past years and fresh (frozen) meat is not always available at food pantries. With partners and sponsors, the program provides free venison to support food access and nutrition security.
“Food pantries are receiving lean ground meat, which was sparce previously. This is an amazing program which connects hunters, meat processors, food pantries, and the communities we serve.” said Tracy Bowden, SNAP-Ed Educator. “This venison donation program helped feed thousands of families.”
Learn more about the program at go.illinois.edu/deerdonation and follow “Illinois Deer Donation Program” on Facebook.
ABOUT EXTENSION: Illinois Extension leads public outreach for University of Illinois by translating research into action plans that allow Illinois families, businesses, and community leaders to solve problems, make informed decisions, and adapt to changes and opportunities.
