Deer hunting has become more than an outdoor sport; it has become an opportunity to feed the hungry and provide closure for families of missing persons.
Hunters again are being asked to participate in the Share the Harvest Program, coordinated by the Central Missouri Chapter of Safari Club International.
Under the program, hunters may share all or part of their venison with charitable agencies that help feed needy people.
"Last year," said Walter Coleman, chapter president, "15,580 pounds of venison were donated through this program that helped fill a great need, and we are hoping for an increase this year."
The program is a combined effort among the chapter, Missouri Department of Conservation, Conservation Federation of Missouri, six area meat processors and other partners.
Donated venison is distributed to 17 area charities that help feed people in need.
"There continues to be a big need for food to serve needy people in Central Missouri," said Mike Nolting, program coordinator for the chapter.
Hunters may donate any amount from 1 pound to an entire deer. Additional information about the program and reimbursement details are available by contacting Nolting at 573-645-1705 or at [email protected].
Observant hunters in the past also have found clothing, eye glasses and other items that have helped law enforcement agencies solve cases involving missing persons.
Missouri Missing, a not-for-profit group dedicated to finding answers in such cases, encourages outdoor enthusiasts to be watchful and to report any potential evidence they may find.
We commend those hunters who have embraced the added dimensions of their sport and shouldered its service opportunities.