Hunting And Outdoor Sports
Hunters Against Hunger program returns for the season
Montana’s Hunters Against Hunger program aims to alleviate food insecurity with big game donations
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✍️By ZRIntel Editorial Team📍Montana
Hunters Against Hunger, a collaborative initiative between the Montana Food Bank Network (MFBN) and Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks, has once again returned for the hunting season, providing an essential opportunity for hunters to donate their legally harvested big game animals to food banks throughout the state. This program, which began as a small-scale operation, has grown significantly since its inception in 2014, and now serves as one of the primary means of providing nutritious wild game to thousands of Montanans facing food insecurity. The program allows hunters to donate a variety of big game species, including deer, elk, antelope, moose, and even wild bison. These donations are processed free of charge by participating meat processors, and the processed meat is then distributed directly to food pantries and shelters across Montana. For hunters, this donation process is a simple and effective way to contribute to their community while still adhering to the traditions of responsible hunting. Since its launch, the Hunters Against Hunger program has provided over 413,995 pounds of meat to more than 30 food banks across the state, helping to feed those in need. With food prices continuing to rise, protein remains one of the most expensive items for food pantries to source, making game meat a highly valuable commodity for families in need. As such, the Montana Food Bank Network aims to expand the program to include 35 food pantries by 2026, ensuring that even more families can benefit from the generosity of hunters. Hunters Against Hunger has made it easier for hunters to participate by setting up a streamlined donation process. The program encourages hunters to donate a portion of their harvest, and even provides a monetary donation option to help cover the costs of processing and distribution. Local meat processors are reimbursed up to $3 per pound of finished product, ensuring that processors are incentivized to participate and that donations are handled efficiently and professionally. This program has truly become a win-win for both hunters and those who rely on food banks. Cyrus Turbak, the Program Coordinator for MFBN, emphasized the vital role that both hunters and processors play in the success of this initiative. This is all about community, said Turbak. Hunters have the opportunity to contribute to their neighbors well-being, and the program also allows them to be part of something bigger ensuring that their harvest goes to those who truly need it. Its an incredible feeling to know that youre making a difference in someones life, even as youre out in the field doing what you love. To further boost participation, MFBN and Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks have worked to increase awareness of the program, especially during peak hunting seasons. Hunters are encouraged to visit the official website to find participating processors in their area or to make additional monetary contributions to support the initiative. This is a fantastic way to get involved and give back to the community. Beyond the immediate impact on food banks, the program also plays a critical role in educating hunters about the importance of conservation and ethical hunting practices. By donating a portion of their harvest, hunters are helping to maintain sustainable wildlife populations while simultaneously giving back to their communities. The tradition of hunting has always been about more than just filling a tag its about being responsible stewards of the land, the wildlife, and the people who share it with us.