Nashville, Tenn. – Tennessee Wildlife Federation is excited to announce Senator Mike Bell’s support of Tennesseans through his generous donation to Hunters for the Hungry.

Bell’s donation will fund processing and distribution of venison to food insecure families residing in communities in and near Tennessee’s 9^th Senate District, which includes Bradley, McMinn, Meigs, Monroe and Polk Counties. Last year, in this district alone, community members donated more than 1,839 pounds of venison to create 7,356 meals for neighbors in need. These donations combined with those from other East Tennessee communities provided 146,308 servings of venison.

Hunters for the Hungry is a unique program providing healthy protein to hungry Tennesseans. When hunters harvest a deer, they may donate it to Hunters for the Hungry at a participating processor. The venison is processed for free or at a reduced rate and then provided to area food banks or soup kitchens. One deer provides as many as 168 meals of venison.

“It is extremely important for people to get healthy protein in their diets, but many families struggle to find healthy protein because it is often expensive,” said Senator Bell. “Hunters for the Hungry is a great organization that makes it possible for Tennesseans to get the protein they need for a healthy balanced diet, who might not otherwise have the option.  As an avid hunter myself, I enjoy donating to this organization and encourage my fellow hunters to do the same.”   

Thanks to hunters in the area and the support of legislators like Senator Bell, both 2015 and 2016 were record seasons for Hunters for the Hungry. Tennessee Wildlife Federation is hoping to continue the trend—making the 2017 season the most impactful yet and providing more meals to those in need.

“Hunters for the Hungry is in its 20^th year in Tennessee and has provided nearly 6 million meals in that time thanks to neighbors giving back to neighbors,” said Hunters for the Hungry manager, Matt Simcox. “Senator Bell’s generosity will ensure we continue to reach and feed Tennesseans in need. The Federation is thrilled he is working to strengthen our communities and Tennessee.”

About Tennessee Wildlife Federation

Tennessee Wildlife Federation leads the conservation, sound management and wise use of Tennessee’s great outdoors. Since 1946, the Federation has led the development of the state’s wildlife policy, advanced landmark legislation on air and water quality and other conservation initiatives, helped restore numerous species, and introduced thousands of kids to the great outdoors. To learn more, visit tnwf.org.