COLUMBUS – Hunters have donated 1,405 white-tailed deer to local Ohio food banks to benefit Ohioans in need during the 2012 deer hunting season, according to Farmers and Hunters Feeding the Hungry (FHFH) and the Ohio Department of Natural Resources’ (ODNR) Division of Wildlife.

“In the spirit of the holidays, Ohio’s deer hunters have shown they are willing to donate venison to those in need,” said ODNR Division of Wildlife Chief Scott Zody. “We encourage all hunters to enjoy the rest of the hunting season and to consider donating extra harvested deer to this worthy cause.”

The donations delivered approximately 70,250 pounds of venison and 281,000 meals for needy Ohioans. Venison donations will be accepted through the end of the deer-archery season, Feb. 3, 2013.