Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
How does Hunters for the Hungry work?
TACAA operates the statewide Hunters for the Hungry program in Texas. TACAA actively recruits meat processors, solicits venison donations, promotes the program, and provides resources to support participating meat processors throughout Texas.
Hunters bring their tagged, legally harvested deer to a participating meat processor, and pay a nominal fee to cover basic processing costs. After processing and packaging the venison, meat processors contact local food assistance providers to pick up the ground venison and distribute it to those in need.
Where does the meat go?
TACAA provides meat processors with a list of area food assistance providers, such as food banks, pantries, churches, senior centers, and shelters. After processing and freezing the venison, participating meat processors contact these agencies to pick up and distribute the meat.
Why is there a processing fee?
The processing fee, generally $30-$40, helps cover the costs of the processor’s equipment, labor, and overhead. The processing fee may be tax deductible for the hunter; consult your tax advisor. The processor will provide a receipt for your donation. Neither the food assistance providers nor the donation recipients incur any fee for the meat.
Can I donate other game, such as hogs, geese, ducks, or fish?
Due to the state and federal requirements for processing other animals, only white tail and mule deer are accepted through the program.
Wild hogs must be trapped live and transported to an approved facility where the animals can be inspected prior to and after slaughter. Because of this requirement, hogs are not accepted through Hunters for the Hungry.
Can I donate an animal that was hit by a car or died in some other way?
No. Do to safety concerns, only deer that are legally hunted can be donated. An animal that dies from another cause may not be safe for consumption; therefore, we cannot accept it.
Can I donate processed meat?
No. Hunters for the Hungry cannot accept meat that has already been processed, but we can help you find a food assistance provider who may be able to accept it directly. Contact us for help.
What if I unintentionally donate or distribute meat that is not safe to eat?
State and federal laws protect donors and food assistance providers who act in good faith. In other words, as long as you have no reason to believe that the meat is unsafe, then you cannot be held criminally or civilly responsible if the meat is not in good condition. The Good Faith Donor Act and the Emerson Good Samaritan Food Donation Act address this issue.
How can I receive venison?
Venison donated to the Hunters for the Hungry program is distributed to families and individuals in need through local food assistance providers rather than to individuals. If you need food assistance, call 211 or visit 211texas.org, or contact a food assistance provider directly.
If you are a food assistance provider seeking Hunters for the Hungry donations, please contact us. Your agency name will be given to a participating meat processor in your area.
How can I donate to support Hunters for the Hungry?
Hunters for the Hungry always appreciates monetary donations to sustain the program. Please consider donating now.
Click on the Donate Now link below or print the Donation Form.
