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 Responds and sharing our member resources with anyone who may need assistance.
We are also encouraging our fellow Texans who are safe and looking for a way to help to 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 Kerrville.
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.” Restaurants are special because they are a gathering spot for every community in times of celebration but also in times of great loss. At the Texas Restaurant Association, we are committed to channeling that spirit of hospitality and community, and we will be here—through every step of this tragedy—to support our neighbors and stand with Central Texas.
WHAT IS RESTAURANTS RESPOND?
THE SPIRIT OF HOSPITALITY & THE STRENGTH OF TEXANS
As communities work to recover from a catastrophe, the restaurant community is there for them. When disaster strikes, restaurants are among 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 the restaurant.
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.