Share the Harvest — a program that provides meat to needy families — plans to increase its annual collection of venison through state economic incentives.  

The Department of Economic Development has approved Share the Harvest for about $200,000 in Neighborhood Assistance Program incentives.

The Missouri Conservation Federation expects the added resources will nearly double the amount of venison donated to Share the Harvest for needy Missourians.

Dave Murphy is director of the Federation; he says the program is a win for hunters, the environment and those in need. He says more funding means more participation.

Last year, more than 250,000 pounds of venison was distributed through the program. For information on how to participate, visit http://mdc.mo.gov/hunt/deer/share/.