Hunters Can Donate Deer to Feed Nebraskans
Nebraska Game and Parks is reminding hunters that eight processor locations accept whole field-dressed deer through the Hunters Helping the Hungry program.
Updated on Nov. 10, 2026 in Hunting
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Nebraska Game and Parks reminded hunters of the Hunters Helping the Hungry program, which accepts whole field-dressed deer at eight participating processor locations across the state. Hunters pay no processing costs for donated deer, and the program is funded solely by tax-deductible contributions.
Why it matters
The program turns harvested deer into ground venison distributed by charitable organizations to Nebraskans in need. More than 900,000 meals have been distributed since the program started more than a decade ago, and the reminder arrives as firearm deer season opens.
Eight processor locations accept whole deer in good condition, and hunters may keep antlers, head and cape while donating the rest. Hunters are advised to talk with processors before donating.
The players
Nebraska Game and Parks
Nebraska Game and Parks is the state agency that manages wildlife, hunting seasons and outdoor recreation in Nebraska.
Hunters Helping the Hungry
Hunters Helping the Hungry is a statewide program that channels donated deer into ground venison for charitable distribution to people in need.
The details
Hunters may donate whole field-dressed deer at participating processors in Amherst, Elmwood, Lindsay, Norfolk, North Platte, Plattsmouth, Table Rock and Wahoo. Processors accept only whole deer in good condition, and ground venison is then distributed by charities to Nebraskans in need.
Timeline
Firearm deer season begins Saturday and runs through Nov. 22.
The nine-day November firearm deer season requires hunters to wear at least 400 square inches of hunter orange.
The Hunters Helping the Hungry program started more than a decade ago.
Seasonal Patterns
The reminder lands as Nebraska's nine-day November firearm deer season opens, the period when the state's donation pathway through Hunters Helping the Hungry is most active. Its eight participating processors have carried the program since it began more than a decade ago.
Hunters planning to donate should call a participating processor first to confirm whole-deer acceptance and condition requirements. Wear at least 400 square inches of hunter orange during the nine-day November firearm season.
The takeaway
Donating a harvested deer costs hunters nothing at participating processors and feeds neighbors through charities. Calling ahead to confirm the deer is whole and in good condition keeps the donation on track.
What happens next
Firearm deer season ends Nov. 22, the date after which donation windows tied to that season close.
Further reading
For more on seasons and donation rules, explore Hunting coverage across the state.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Ksnblocal4.
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