Hunters for the Hungry opens deer season donations

GAINESVILLE - Archery season for deer hunting opens Saturday and so does the Hall County Hunters for the Hungry Program.

The program collects partial and all field dressed quality deer to give to organizations that are dedicated to feeding the less fortunate. The program collects from the beginning of the season until January 1.

"Last year we took in 2,900 pounds, which is a ton and a half," said program director Kent Kammermeyer. "And we're expecting about the same this year." Kammermeyer is also a wildlife consultant for the Georgia Department of Natural Resources.

The program, which is sponsored by Quality Deer Management Association and Southern Heritage Land Company, is currently the only one in the county. "There used to be two and some years even three different Hunters for the Hungry programs in Hall County, but this is the only one left that I know of," said Kammermeyer .

Kammermeyer said the donations go to about 10 local organizations that feed the less fortunate. This year, Gainesville Baptist Rescue Mission, Chattahoochee Baptist Mission, No One's Alone women's shelter, My Sister's Place, Serenity House, His Harvest House by Free Chapel, Riverbend Baptist Church, Set Free Ministires, The Way Up and Unseen Hands are all receiving donations.

Kammermeyer also said any organization in need of venison should contact him by phone at 706-878-6159 about being added to the list.

Those wishing to donate may do so by bringing their deer to a cooler locker at North Georgia Processing at 6015 Athens Street in Lula. Donors are encouraged to contact collector Mike Young beforehand by calling him at 678-343-8423. Donations should be quality deer, described as "deer you would feed your family" in a press release.