The "Take a Child Hunting" program of Operation Orphans, Inc. enjoyed another successful season of taking less fortunate kids deer hunting in the Texas hill country. During the five hunts held this season, 237 boys and girls from 24 children's homes harvested 259 animals. 42 ranches hosted the young hunters and their guides. 2009 season dates for the "Take a Child Hunting" program will be set during the Operation Orphans, Inc. board meeting which will be held February 7th. Dates for the "Take a Child Fishing" program will also be set at that time.

During the December 13 hunt, 38 boys from seven homes harvested 43 animals. Homes participating were Smith Home, Mullin; Boys and Girls Harbor, La Porte; Methodist Home for Children, Waco; Texas Boys Ranch, Lubbock; Presbyterian Home, Itasca; Children's Home of Lubbock, Lubbock; and Sweeten Home, Brownwood. Ranches allowing the hunters to harvest deer were Craft Alaca, Blanco county; Hoerster Ranch, Llano, Inks Ranch, Llano; Karl Ransleben, Gillespie, Korn Place, Mason; Longhorn Ranch, Kerr; Schweining Ranch, Sutton; Seaquist Ranch, Mason; Star S Ranch, Mason; Thorn Ranch, Mason; and YMCA Roberts Ranch, Kerr. Animals harvested were 30 whitetail does, 11 spikes, and two management bucks.

Individuals preparing the sack lunches for the groups to enjoy during their hunt were Annie Zesch, Sierra Martin, Aspen Martin, Dakota Martin, Sherry Lehmberg, Joann Wimberly, and Barbara Collard. The Boy Scout Troop 281 prepared the Saturday morning breakfast. Individuals participating were Bodie Adams, Tyler Chew, Jacob Bibb, Elliot Bibb, Jorge Morales, Albino Cedillo, Samuel Martinez, Chuckie Martinez, Dyllan Hofmann and Andy Song. Adults assisting were Tim Chew, Wayne Carl Hofmann, Steve and Sheri Jordan, and Max Jordan. Fredericksburg Bakery and Mason Bottling Company supplied baked goods and soft drinks.

Individuals wishing additional information about Operation Orphans, Inc. and the "Take a Child Hunting and Fishing" programs should contact Camp Supervisors Jerry or Lyla Crouch, 325.347.6745.