DNR encourages support for Michigan Sportsmen Against Hunger

With more than 1.1 million Michigan residents annually seeking food assistance, the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) encourages hunters to keep this critical need in mind as they head out this season.

The DNR asks all hunters to consider making a donation to Michigan Sportsmen Against Hunger (MSAH) when purchasing hunting licenses this year. Donations will be used to support the processing of deer donated to participating processors. Last year, the venison donated to local food banks and food kitchens throughout Michigan supplied enough meat to provide more than 100,000 meals with a source of nutritious protein.

“Today, we have the opportunity to continue a tradition started by hunters before us, who hunted to provide food for early settlements in Michigan,” said Raymond Rustem, DNR liaison for MSAH. “Hunter donations of funds or venison can help those who are still experiencing hard times in our state.”

When renewing fishing or hunting licenses, residents should tell the license vendor of their intent to make a monetary donation to the Michigan Sportsmen Against Hunger program. Anglers and hunters can donate in amounts of $1, $5, $10 or $20. The vendor will simply add the donation amount to the overall purchase price and it will show up as an additional item on the license.

Those who would like to donate a deer should visit the MSAH website, www.sportsmenagainsthunger.org, to find the nearest processor.

Rustem pointed out that even individuals who don’t fish or hunt can still support this important program by visiting the Michigan e-Store at www.michigan.gov/estore, click on Tax-Deductible Donations, and then choose the Help Feed the Hungry option. Fill in the information about the donation and add the item to the cart.

“Many people continue to struggle in this economy,” he added. “Donating to this important effort is a simple way to help.”

Rustem reminded donors to save any receipts or forms. Donations to Michigan Sportsmen Against Hunger are tax-deductible.

Since 1991, Michigan Sportsmen Against Hunger has been working to create linkages between donors, wild game processors and charities that feed needy individuals. MSAH is an all-volunteer organization and is led by sportsmen and women concerned about making a positive difference in the community. Together, they have assembled a network of processors and charities across Michigan to help channel wild game donations into the hands of those in need. Learn more at www.sportsmenagainsthunger.org.