This is a scheme which has all the hallmarks of a feel-good story — and it is all voluntary, with no-one on the payroll.
The Deep South Project, run through Deer to Care, started last year. It has now created a practical system connecting local hunters, Southland butcheries, charities and supporters to turn wild venison into meals for Southland families in need.
And it is only going to get bigger.
With wild deer in high numbers throughout Southland, there is plenty of meat available.
The scheme has been fine-tuned, with the whole of Southland split into regions, and the process streamlined.
Co-founder Stu O’Neill said with nearly 50 hunters involved, there was plenty of venison coming in.
The hunters simply brought the deer to select butchers throughout the province, who cut it up and gave it to drivers who distributed it to social agencies, schools and other service organisations.
The scheme had grown very quickly, and it was now bringing people together who would not normally meet, Mr O’Neill said.
‘‘We’ve got a 10-year plan for this. It’s not just a flash in the plan,’’ he said.
‘‘It exists only because of the generosity and loyalty of Southlanders who are looking after their own community.
‘‘There’s something deeply Southland about that. It’s become more than just a donation programme; it’s a real example of social connection, local culture, shared responsibility and communities quietly looking after their own.’’
The organisation had butchers in Riverton, Te Anau, Winton, Mataura and Invercargill, who did the job out of the goodness of their heart, he said. There were also some pigs coming in to be given out.
He said it was important to really connect with those people who were facing hardship, but were shy in coming forward to ask for food.
Gore’s St Mary’s School principal Mallory Hall said the scheme was great.
It was a real helping hand for the community, and families really appreciated it, she said.
‘‘We might give it to a family who may be having a hard time that week. [They] just need a helping hand for a couple of meals.
‘‘That just takes the pressure off for a while and gives them some time.’’
Food was also given to the Gore Kids’ Hub, which was greatly appreciated.
