Making a Difference – Cleaning Your Closet

If you have been hunting for any amount of time you likely have a garage filled with gear and a closet choked with camouflage and blaze orange.  Chances are some of it doesn’t get used near as much as it should.  Perhaps you even have a significant other that reminds you of such on a regular basis, too.

Each year hundreds of participants take part in the mentored hunts across Nebraska.  However, for many that are new to hunting a limiting factor is the right clothes or the necessary gear.  This is especially true for those that come from a non-hunting family and that may be living on a very tight budget.  Each year we see and hear the stories of an interested newbie showing up for a hunt on a 20 degree day wearing just blue jeans, tennis shoes and a hoodie.  Here’s your chance to shine…

We are currently looking for donations of clean, useable clothing and gear that is in good condition to help get new hunters into the field safely and comfortably.  Participants in our programs come in all dimensions so we will accept all sizes, and we are seeking blaze orange clothing as well as camouflaged.

Donations can be dropped off Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m. (CST), at three Game and Parks Offices from now until January 10, 2014.  For large loads we ask you call the office ahead of time to allow for some preparation.

• Kearney             1617 First Ave, Kearney NE 68847                             (308-865-5310)
• Lincoln              2200 N 33^rd St, Lincoln NE 68503                             (402-471-0641)
• North Platte     301 E State Farm Rd, North Platte NE 69101           (308-535-8025)

Here are the kinds of hunting items we are looking for (but not limited to):

• Insulated bibs
• Parkas/insulated coats
• Hooded sweatshirts
• Insulated boots
• Shooting sticks
• Game calls
• Gloves
• Facemasks
• New Wool Socks
• New Stocking Caps/Insulated hats

However, we cannot accept certain items such as:

• Tree stands (of any type)
• Safety Harnesses/Fall Arrest Systems Components
• Firearms
• Ammunition (or components)

Keep in mind that the acceptance & use of donated items is subject to the need and usefulness as determined by the NGPC, with much of it becoming part of the Hunt Masters program.

Just imagine the win-win situation.  You make your significant other happy, create room for new gear and help ensure the next generation of hunters is heading to the field – the donation may even be tax-deductible.  I’ve already started cleaning my hunting closet – will you?

hershy