Don’s Custom Meats named ‘Ally to ODNR’

By Thomas Clapper

CCM Reporter

Don’s Custom Meats was awarded a plaque and recognized as an Excellent Processor and ally to the Ohio Division of Wildlife on Oct. 23. 

Carroll County Game Warden Scott Cartwright and other officials including former Carroll County Game Warden Dan Shroyer met Don Pontones’ son, Don Jr. and wife, Kathy, at Don’s Custom Meats to present the award. 

“Don’s Custom Meats is outstanding to work with and their quality of work is great,” said  Cartwright. “We appreciate that Don will process unwanted deer from hunters and farmers to donate to local food pantries and feed the hungry. They also support us and provide services we need.”

“We appreciate what you do and appreciate the services you provide,” said Shroyer, presenting the plaque to Don and Don Jr. “Many processors don’t take deer and you do this all year round.” 

Don said approximately 80 deer were donated last year to help feed the hungry and so far in 2024 there have been about 30. 

“We appreciate the recognition and are just happy to help,” said Pontones. “It is a family business and myself, Kathy, Don Jr. and my daughter, Kelly Alexander, have been doing this since 1991. We are proud to be a part of the Farmers and Hunters Feeding the Hungry Ohio #23.”