Hunters who have game to spare can donate bear, deer or moose meat to the hungry. 

Maine’s Hunters for the Hungry Program, founded in 1999, offers a cost-effective way to feed the hungry statewide. Meat donated provides a valuable source of lean protein for community kitchens, pantries, shelters or homes with a medical necessity. They’ve estimated one deer can yield 110 meals for those in need. 

The program is a cooperative effort between the Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife and the Department of Agriculture’s Emergency Food Assistance Program. It involves hunters, wardens and processors in helping hunger relief organizations.

Hunters can call 888-4DEER-ME for more information or to make a donation. The Department of Agriculture and the processor will coordinate a pick up or arrange storage for future distribution.