Louisiana’s November Push for Wild Game Meat Donations to Fight Hunger

In a move to support families in need this holiday season, Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry has officially declared November as “Wild Game Meat Donation Month.”

This initiative, announced by the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries, encourages local hunters to contribute surplus game meat—such as deer and hogs—to community organizations, aiding shelters and families across the state.

“Protein is the most expensive part of every meal that everyone eats,” said Julie Grunewald, executive director of Hunters for the Hungry Louisiana.

The program emphasizes the essential role that hunters can play by providing highly sought-after protein sources to food banks, shelters, and kitchens serving Louisiana’s five food bank systems.

According to Grunewald, “With deer season upon us, it is a great way for people within the state to be able to give back to their community.”

Throughout last year’s season, Hunters for the Hungry Louisiana processed over 211,486 pounds of donated meat, an amount that translated into more than 845,944 meals served.

However, the organization faces significant processing costs, having spent approximately $250,000 in the previous season alone.

With the increasing prices of food and processing fees, the group aims to raise an additional $100,000 by the year’s end to support its growing processor network.

“The increase of costs continues to hit everybody pretty hard,” noted Grunewald, highlighting the impact of inflation on their operations.

Governor Landry’s support brings attention to the importance of wild game donations, particularly as holiday needs grow.

Hunters across Louisiana are encouraged to participate, either by donating meat they already have or by dedicating a portion of this season’s harvest.

For more on the impact of wild game meat donations, visit our homepage to discover how hunters are giving back to their communities this holiday season.