Houston Food Bank Partners with Hunters, Local Meat Processors to Combat Hunger
The Houston Food Bank is taking significant strides to combat hunger in our community by partnering with local meat processors through the Hunters for the Hungry program. This initiative not only promotes environmental stewardship but also provides much-needed protein to neighbors in need.
What is Hunters for the Hungry?
The Hunters for the Hungry program, part of Feeding Texas, encourages hunters to donate legally tagged, field-dressed whitetail or mule deer to participating meat processors. These processors prepare the donated venison at no charge, packaging it into 2-pound chub bags for distribution through food banks like the Houston Food Bank. This year, the Houston Food Bank has teamed up with Bay Area Deer Processing in Pasadena, Chappell Hill Sausage Company near Brenham, and Midway Food Market in Katy to process the donated meat and is actively seeking more local processors to join the effort.
How Does It Work?
From November 2024 to January 2025, hunters can drop off their legally tagged, field-dressed whitetail or mule deer donations at any participating processor. There’s no cost involved for the hunters, and it’s a great way to support those in need. It’s important to note that feral hogs cannot be accepted due to state and federal health regulations. Additionally, when purchasing a Texas hunting license, hunters can opt to donate to the Hunters for the Hungry program to help cover processing fees.
Mobile Sidebar Ad
Why It Matters
Since its inception, Hunters for the Hungry has provided over 10 million servings of venison to Texans in need. This partnership not only helps feed families but also promotes responsible wildlife management and reduces food waste.
The Houston Food Bank has been serving Houston and southeast Texas since 1982, providing access to 120 million nutritious meals across 18 counties through a network of 1,600 community partners. Their mission focuses on healthy foods, fresh produce, and addressing the root causes of hunger. By collaborating with hunters and meat processors, the food bank continues its vital work in promoting food security and improving lives.
Get Involved
If you're a hunter interested in participating or a processor wanting to help, contact the Houston Food Bank at huntersforthehungry@houstonfoodbank.org. For more information about the program, visit Feeding Texas.
Together, we can make a meaningful impact in our community while supporting healthy living and environmental sustainability.