JULY 2025 UPDATE:
Statement from the Texas Restaurant Association in response to the catastrophic floods that hit Central Texas over the July 4th weekend
There are no words to capture the heart break we’re feeling as the devastating floods continue to impact families across Central Texas. The Texas Restaurant Association is activating Restaurants Respond and sharing our member resources with anyone who may need assistance.
Are you seeking to provide immediate relief/support? We encourage you Donate to Mercy Chefs—a terrific 501(c)(3) that is already on the ground providing hot, nourishing meals to first responders and impacted families in Central Texas.
We are coordinating with local leaders and our members to schedule a feeding operation in the community. If you are interested in helping with this effort, please send a note to Kelsey at kstreufert@txrestaurant.org.
We are partnering with two terrific non-profits once again to ensure foodservice employees from the area receive the help and support they need. Thank you to Children of Restaurant Employees (CORE) and Southern Smoke Foundation.
We know communities across Central Texas will need assistance long after the flood waters recede. We will be ready to help and encourage partners to support these efforts by making a tax-deductible contribution to the Texas Restaurant Relief Fund.
As our friends at Mercy Chefs said so eloquently, “In moments like these, a hot meal is more than food—it’s a reminder that [we] are not alone.” Please continue to visit and share Restaurants Respond so our fellow Texans have a place to find the resources they need and to give back as they are able. Thank you for standing with us as we support our neighbors.
WHAT IS RESTAURANTS RESPOND?
When disaster strikes, local restaurants are alwaysamong the first to respond. Whether it’s a warm meal for first responders or drinking water for communities that have been devastated by a storm, restaurants play a critical role in disaster response.
At the same time, restaurants and their team members are also impacted when disasters hit Texas. Often these disasters stop restaurants from operating for several days or even months, creating financial and personal challenges for all who rely on them.
The Restaurants Respond project consolidates resources to help restaurants support their communities after a disaster, and to help the community support affected restaurants in need. By harnessing the generous spirit and strength of Texas’ hospitality industry, we can make a powerful difference for communities in need.