MADISON, Wis. (WMTV) - With the government shutdown in full effect and Wisconsinites worried about losing their FoodShare assistance , the Department of Natural Resources is encouraging hunters to take part in the Deer Donation Program.

The program, created in 2000, has seen over four million pounds of ground venison donated to food pantries across the state.

“Community pantries all over Wisconsin are seeing a rising demand for food, especially as Wisconsinites lose access to food assistance due to the federal government shutdown,” said DNR Secretary Karen Hyun. “Our Deer Donation Program helps provide nutrition-packed options like venison and we are optimistic hunters will continue their role in combating hunger in Wisconsin through this program.”

Donation partners including county l

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