8-13-12, LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) - State officials are urging Nebraska's meat processors to apply for a new program in which hunters to give deer meat from their kills to the needy.
 
Under the Hunters Helping the Hungry program, part of hunters' permit fees and other donations are used to reimburse meat processors who would prepare the meat for Nebraska's food banks. But meat processors have to sign up for the program to be successful.
 
Only custom-exempt meat processors inspected by the U.S. Department of Agriculture or the Nebraska Department of Agriculture are eligible to apply. Applications will be accepted through Aug. 31.
 
The Nebraska Game and Parks Commission, which administers the program, is also seeking cash donations for the program.
 
Processors may obtain an application and donations may be made at http://outdoornebraska.ne.gov/hunting/programs/HHH/index.asp .