Since 1993 nearly one million servings of nutritious venison have been issued to hungry Georgians through the Georgia Hunters for the Hungry (GHFTH) program.  The successful collection and distribution of nearly 200,000 pounds of venison over the past 15 years is credited to the collaborative efforts of the Georgia Wildlife Federation, the Georgia Department of Corrections, the Georgia Department of Agriculture, the Georgia State Association of Food Banks and the Department of Natural Resources' Wildlife Resources and Parks and Historic Sites Divisions.  Recently, the Georgia Board of Natural Resources passed a resolution in recognition of this immensely successful program.

The Georgia Board of Natural Resources recognized the GHFTH program May 23 by passing a resolution declaring the past 15 years a success and recognizing all the partners involved for their efforts in providing nutritious meals to Georgia's families and for their efforts in successfully promoting hunters and hunting as a wholesome recreation with added benefits to all of Georgia. 

The Board also recognized the critical role the GHFTH program plays in portraying hunters and hunting as valuable assets to the State of Georgia and promoting ethical hunting as contributing to the welfare of all Georgians.  Furthermore, the GHFTH program proves an excellent example of the value of public-private partnerships and the benefit they offer Georgia citizens. 

The GHFTH program is an annual fall event in which hunters are able to donate harvested deer at designated collection sites located around the state.  Last year, a record amount - nearly 29,000 pounds - was collected and processed into ground venison by participating game processing sites and the Georgia Department of Corrections. The Georgia State Association of Food Banks distributes the meat received each year to non-profit agencies that provide food assistance to local communities throughout the state.   

Each year, participating hunters of the GHFTH program have their names entered into a drawing for a deer rifle, sponsored by the Georgia Wildlife Federation.   
 
For more information on the GHFTH program, visit www.georgiawildlife.com or call (770) 761-3044.