NRA and U.S. Governors Launch National Wild Game Meat Donation Month to Aid Hunger Relief
This November marks the second National Wild Game Meat Donation Month (NWGMDM), a campaign led by the NRA in collaboration with nine U.S. governors to encourage American hunters to donate game meat through local Hunters for the Hungry (HFH) programs.
Recognizing hunters as a vital force in the fight against hunger, the initiative supports the donation of millions of pounds of game meat annually to provide essential protein for communities in need.
Wyoming Governor Mark Gordon, alongside other governors, signed proclamations acknowledging the value of wild game donations in addressing food insecurity.
As Governor Gordon stated, “We are grateful to the hunters who help fight hunger across Wyoming and beyond.”
The proclamation emphasizes that HFH programs, such as Hunters for the Hungry, Sportsmen Against Hunger, and others, work collectively with hunters to supply nutritious meat to food banks, shelters, and soup kitchens.
Amid rising food costs, food insecurity remains a reality for one in seven Americans, according to Feeding America. HFH programs are instrumental in meeting this need, yet they operate with limited funding, underscoring the importance of donations.
NRA spokesperson Karen Mehall Phillips notes the organization’s ongoing support through subsidies that help cover meat processing costs, saying, “While there are more than 40 unique HFH programs nationwide, they operate with limited funding.” In 2023 alone, the NRA allocated $100,000 to these programs.
The NRA’s involvement with HFH also spotlights hunters’ contributions to conservation. Funding from the Federal Aid in Wildlife Restoration Act, often called the Pittman-Robertson Act, provided $989 million to state wildlife initiatives this year.
Such funding, generated by hunting and fishing-related taxes, supports wildlife conservation programs across the country.
This month, the NRA and HFH are encouraging hunters to donate surplus game meat or contribute financially to their local HFH program.
Phillips concludes, “Invite a non-hunting friend over for a healthy venison dinner and explain the benefits of hunters and hunting firsthand.” As Thanksgiving approaches, this celebration of generosity illustrates the commitment of American hunters to supporting those in need.
Curious about National Wild Game Meat Donation Month? Check out our homepage for insights on how hunters are supporting hunger relief efforts across the U.S.
