April 4, 2024 – The 2023-2024 Illinois Deer Donation Program through the University of Illinois Extension saw more than 300 deer, and a total of 12,187 pounds of venison were distributed among over 50 food pantries spanning a 16-county area in central Illinois. Over 48,000 meals went to individuals and families in need.
“We’re so grateful to our partnering meat processors and hunters,” said Caitlin Mellendorf, nutrition and wellness educator. “Without them, this program isn’t able to provide venison to hundreds of families.”
Donated meat goes to Champaign, Clark, Clay, Coles, Crawford, Cumberland, DeWitt, Douglas, Edgar, Effingham, Fayette, Jasper, Macon, Moultrie, Piatt, & Shelby counties. With the program, hunters can bring harvested deer to partnering meat processors to be donated. Hunters do not have to pay the processing fee for donated deer.
For more information or to donate, click HERE.
By: Isaiah Bradford
