3/9/2009
The Division of Natural Resources (DNR) recently announced hunters donated 1,149 deer to the Hunters Helping the Hungry (HHH) Program during the 2008 hunting season – very close to last season’s donation total (1,224).
"Thanks to generous West Virginia hunters who donated deer to the HHH Program, many needy West Virginians will receive highly nutritious meals this year," noted Program Coordinator Jerry Westfall. "The DNR, along with their partners Mountaineer Food Bank and Huntington Area Food Bank, truly appreciate the generosity shown by these hunters. Without their help, this program could not exist."
Venison is collected and distributed by Mountaineer Food Bank (Gassaway) and Huntington Area Food Bank. Two-pound packages of ground venison are distributed to participating distribution centers such as food pantries, soup kitchens, senior centers, community centers, churches, orphanages and other institutions, throughout the state. Although it is too late for non-enrolled centers to receive venison this season, those interested are encouraged to enroll now so they may receive venison during next season. Contact Mountaineer Food Bank at (304) 364-5518 to discuss the application process needed to participate.
"Although the DNR is very grateful for hunter-donated deer, the HHH Program still requires monetary donations to offset processing and distribution costs," said Westfall. The DNR is restricted from using sportsmen’s license dollars to fund this program, and is completely dependent upon donations by concerned individuals, businesses, conservation organizations, foundations, and churches. "Without this donated funding, we simply could not continue the HHH Program," said Westfall.
The DNR accepts monetary donations to the HHH Program year-round. Anyone wishing to make a donation to the HHH Program, or wishing more information, should go to the HHH Web page at: http://www.wvdnr.gov/Hunting/HHH.shtm, or contact Jerry Westfall at (304) 558-2771; jerrywestfall@wvdnr.gov .
Contact Information
Jerry Westfall
(304) 558-2771