Ohio Will Seek White-Tailed Deer Donations From Hunters

The state program will collect field-dressed deer to process and distribute as venison to local food pantries.

Updated on Sept. 25, 2026 in Hunting

Screen-print poster illustration of a brown-paper parcel on a wooden surface with autumn leaves, representing a charitable venison donation program. — The Ohio Department of Natural Resources will begin collecting donated white-tailed deer from hunters in 2026 to supply venison to local food pantries. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

Live Poll

Should local hunters donate extra deer harvests to help support food banks in your area?

Beginning October 2026, the Ohio Department of Natural Resources Division of Wildlife will collect donated white-tailed deer from hunters. The processed venison will be distributed to food banks to provide high-quality protein to families across the state.

Why it matters

This initiative helps address food insecurity in Ohio by utilizing donated game to support local families. By partnering with state institutions and food banks, the program effectively manages resource distribution during hunting seasons.

Donation centers will operate from 12-8 p.m. during specified collection windows. All deer donations must be field-dressed before being accepted at designated sites.

The players

Ohio Department of Natural Resources Division of Wildlife

This state agency is responsible for managing Ohio's wildlife resources and implementing hunting regulations.

Ohio Penal Industries

This organization operates programs within correctional facilities that provide job training and produce goods for state use.

Ohio Association of Foodbanks

This is a statewide network of food banks that coordinate the distribution of resources to fight hunger.

The details

The program utilizes a supply chain where staff transport donated deer to the Pickaway Correctional Institution, where Ohio Penal Industries handles the processing and packaging. Once prepared, the venison is distributed through the Ohio Association of Foodbanks to various regional food pantries.

Oct. 10-11, 2026: Donations accepted at Hog Creek Game Club.
Nov. 30, Dec. 1, Dec. 5, Dec. 6, 2026: Donations accepted at multiple locations.
Dec. 19-20, 2026: Donations accepted during bonus gun weekend.

Culture Shift

This program reflects a broader trend of utilizing state correctional infrastructure to support public welfare initiatives. By integrating wildlife management with food security, the state leverages existing labor resources to address societal needs.

Hunters across Ohio can contribute to their local communities by dropping off field-dressed deer at facilities like the Hog Creek Game Club. These donations directly impact the availability of high-quality protein for residents served by regional food pantries.

The takeaway

Participating in these donation events allows hunters to turn their harvest into a vital resource for families in need. Residents interested in supporting the initiative should ensure their deer are properly field-dressed before visiting collection sites during the specified hours.