CONCORD, N.H. (AP) — A New Hampshire foundation aims to donate hunting and fishing licenses to veterans facing financial struggles.

Deerfield state Rep. James Spillane, a Republican, started the foundation to ensure veterans can still afford to enjoy their outdoor sports, WMUR-TV reported.

The first recipient of a combined hunting and fishing license, Joe Brandl of Henniker, said he thinks it's a great idea and hopes it takes off.

Brandl, who served in the Navy from 1968 to 1972, said he gave up hunting and fishing last year to save money.

With his license and fees covered, Brandl said he's eager to back to some of his favorite spots.

“The solitude is nice, even if you're just sitting in a boat rocking around,” he said.

Spillane said he formed the foundation after failing to come up with a legislative solution to provide licenses to vets. He said the Fish and Game Department doesn't have the resources to cover the state's large population of veterans.

“When they have to face prescription costs and housing costs and everything else that's rising, that might be one of the first things they give up, and we shouldn't be asking that,” Spillane said.

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For more information visit www.nhvsf.com