SC Hunters for the Hungry: Feeding South Carolina One Hunt at a Time
September 4, 2024
As deer hunting season approaches in South Carolina, hunters across the state are gearing up to contribute to more than just the thrill of the hunt. They’re participating in a mission that goes beyond the field—a mission to feed thousands of hungry families in South Carolina. SC Hunters for the Hungry, a nonprofit organization based out of Spartanburg, is calling on hunters to join their cause and make a difference in their community.
A Volunteer-Driven Mission
Founded on the principle that no one should go hungry, SC Hunters for the Hungry is a 100% volunteer-run organization. Every cent donated goes directly toward feeding the 1 in 7 South Carolina adults suffering from food insecurity. The organization travels across the state, collecting legally harvested meat and transporting it to state-approved processors, where it’s prepared for distribution. This meat is then provided to 39 nonprofit organizations that help feed over 15,000 people annually. Additionally, SC Hunters for the Hungry supports 150 families at their Pacolet facility with monthly giveaways, including groceries, paper products, and cleaning supplies.
Opportunities to Get Involved
SC Hunters for the Hungry offers volunteer opportunities in all 46 counties across South Carolina. The organization aims to involve people from every region in its mission, offering a variety of ways to contribute. Whether you’re interested in helping with the accumulation and distribution of venison or supporting other aspects of the organization, your involvement can make a real impact in your community. If you’re passionate about feeding the hungry and want to be part of this effort, SC Hunters for the Hungry encourages you to connect with them to learn more about volunteering.
Impacting Communities
Since its inception, SC Hunters for the Hungry has made a significant impact. In its first year, over 10,000 pounds of meat were donated. By 2017, that number grew to over 60,000 pounds. To date, more than 427,403 pounds of meat have been donated, providing an estimated 1.5 million meals since 2004. The organization also delivers over 50,000 pounds of perishable and non-perishable food, along with household and personal hygiene items, each year.
How Hunters and Processors Can Get Involved
Hunters are encouraged to donate part or all of their meat to SC Hunters for the Hungry when they pay their processing fee. Participating processors play a crucial role in this effort by suggesting donations to their customers and handling the processing of donated meat. Processors can also qualify for a state tax credit by processing and donating venison for needy families. The organization ensures that all donated meat is legally harvested and meets safety standards, providing a high-protein food source to those in need.
Support Through the Annual Gun Raffle
To fund their mission, SC Hunters for the Hungry hosts an annual Gun Raffle, with this year’s drawing scheduled for December 10, 2024, at 6 p.m. The event will be streamed live on Facebook. Each ticket purchased helps provide meals for those in need, with a single $25 ticket equating to 60 meals. Multiple tickets increase the impact, with five tickets helping to provide 300 meals.
Join the Cause
As the hunting season kicks off, SC Hunters for the Hungry invites hunters, processors, and supporters to join their mission. Whether through meat donations, financial contributions, or participation in the Gun Raffle, every effort helps combat hunger in South Carolina.
For more information on participating processors, to purchase Gun Raffle tickets, or to view the prizes, visit SC Hunters for the Hungry. Your support can make a meaningful difference in the lives of those struggling with food insecurity across the state.
