Operation Orphans, Inc. held the first hunt of the 2021-22 season October 30th. Homes participating were Fosters Home, Stephenville; Medina Children’s Home, Medina; Boys & Girls Country, Hockley; and Methodist Home, Waco. Eighteen girls from four children home facilities harvested 23 animals. Animals harvested were 13 whitetail does, seven bucks, and three feral hogs. Area ranches hosting the young hunters and their guides were Boys Ranch, Kerr county; Blue Mountain Peak, Mason; Ransleben Ranch, Gillespie; Moneyhon Ranch, Mason; Northcutt Ranch, Mason; Rancho 359, Kimble; Straley Ranch, Mills, and White Ranch, Mason.
The homes came to Camp Gene Ashby Friday afternoon. Various directors and volunteers took the girls on a spooky hayride around the Operation Orphans game pasture. They found old tombstones and scary characters along the ride. The kids received goody bags filled with candy, toiletries, and other items. Everyone enjoyed a hearty meal of fajitas and playing games in the Janie & Milton Jordan Building. The girls visited the Clothing Room where they received a new pair of boots and any clothing they needed or wanted. The boots were made available by generous donations and assistance from Cabela's.
Additional hunts with Operation Orphans, Inc. will take place November 20, December 4, and January 8. These hunts will be for boys. Area ranches use this program as a way to manage deer herds and help educate children on the joys and responsibilities of the outdoors. The homes use the meat in their facilities or in various outreach programs. Individuals volunteer to serve as guides. All guides must complete a background check and have successfully completed a hunter safety course.
Information about Operation Orphans, Inc. and the hunting and fishing programs can be found at the website: www.operationorphans.org or by contacting Jerry or Lyla Crouch, Camp Supervisors, phone: 325.347.6745.