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COLUMBIA, MO. -- Saturday was the official start of deer season and hunters were feeling generous. 

Local hunters donated deer at the bass pro shop in Columbia Saturday for Share the Harvest.

The program lets deer hunters donate venison to the needy.

Last year hunters donated 4,200 full deer to the Share the Harvest program.

"We're lucky in that we are able to provide for our family so it's important for us to try and help others that aren't so fortunate," Cindy Bair said as she donated a deer her husband shot.

The Department of Conservation said hunters can take their deer to approved meat processors and let the processor know how much venison they wish to donate.

The bass pro shop in Columbia will accept full deer through Sunday.