How to help victims of Central Texas floods: Austin benefits, ways to donate

In the wake of the devastating July 4 weekend floods in the greater Central Texas area, businesses, nonprofit organizations and ordinary citizens have stepped up to help our neighbors in need. Want to help? We've created this handy guide that includes information on ways to donate, upcoming benefits and more.

Local restaurants donate to relief efforts

Many Austin restaurants have stepped up to the plate, donating proceeds from sales to benefit flood victims. Notably, Hopdoddy's Burger Bar and DAM-A, Hot Pot & BBQ AYCE will donate 100% of profits from all of their Austin restaurants on Wednesday. Austin institutions Kerbey Lane and P. Terry's, as well as one of our favorite taco spots Veracruz All Natural, will donate 100% of proceeds from all locations on Thursday. Here's a full list of local restaurants that are donating to flood victims.

Austin area benefit concerts

Austin’s music community is contributing to relief efforts following tragic floods that ravaged the greater Central Texas area over the July 4 weekend. Notable events include a pay what you can afford For the Heart of Texas benefit performance at the Long Center on Sunday that features Aaron Behrens of Ghostland Observatory, Gina Chavez, TheBrosFresh, Jackie Venson and Chaparelle and a ticket sale benefit from booking company Resound Presents on Friday. Here's a full list of music benefits.

Ways to donate

Local disaster relief specialists tell the Statesman that now is not the time to clean out your closet or your pantry. If you are able, consider making a monetary donation. Relief organizations can turn cash into gift cards that pay for immediate needs such as housing, food and medications for people who lost their homes or have homes that are uninhabitable.

Here are a few area organizations working on flood relief:

• Austin Disaster Relief Network. In addition to cash donations, and an Amazon wish list of cleaning supplies, the organization is accepting donations of in-kind resources like storage units, tools, gift cards and building supplies.
• Ark of Highland Lakes. Burnet County officials have directed people to contribute to the nonprofit that supports individuals in crisis. The organization is leading efforts to house displaced individuals in hotels.
• Wilco Cares - Support July 2025 Flood Victims. Fund managed by Central Texas Community Foundation.
• Kerr County, Community Foundation of the Texas Hill Country.
• Texas Children's Central Texas Hope Fund. Administered by Texas Children's Hospital. The hospital's North Austin location is also collecting new baby items including diapers, wipes and formula.
• Austin Pets Alive! The nonprofit has been raising money for pet transports. It is also collecting dog and cat carriers, dog and cat food, flea and tick prevention medicines, and cleaning supplies at its downtown shelters.
• Verified GoFundMe accounts. GoFundMe's Texas Flooding Relief Hub, contains links to fundraisers for individuals and groups that have been verified updated by the fundraising platform's trust and safety team.
• How to check for scams before you donate to flood relief.

How to help displaced pets and wildlife

Recent storms in the Hill Country and Central Texas have brought challenges to local animal shelters, but also an overwhelming outpouring of community support. Here are some of the ways local shelters have responded to the storms.

And here are some more ways to help animal shelters:

• Foster: This is a crucial need as shelters manage increased populations and animals return from short-term foster placements.
• Donate: Financial contributions are vital for ongoing medical care, supplies and operational costs. In-kind donations of supplies are also greatly appreciated.
• Utilize Petco Love Lost: If you find a lost pet or have lost a pet, use PetcoLoveLost.org to help facilitate reunions.
• Microchip your pet: Dr. Ellen Jefferson from Austin Pets Alive strongly recommends microchipping as "the best tool for getting pets home."
• Contact Shelters for Supplies: If you are helping flood-affected individuals who need pet supplies, Austin Pets Alive! can provide assistance. Reach out to them at TXfloodresponse@Austinpetsalive.org.

Wild animals have also been struggling in the wake of the storms. Austin Wildlife Rescue has taken in over 120 animals since the weekend including baby squirrels, skunks and turtles. Here's how they've been helping animals and what to do if you find an orphaned baby or an injured animal.

How businesses, corporations are aiding relief efforts

Several businesses including H-E-B, Walmart and Whataburger have been on the ground in disaster areas feeding first responders and citizens in need. Other corporations including Dell Technologies, AT&T and the Dallas Cowboys, Houston Texans and NFL Foundation have written large checks. In addition to a cash donation, Kendra Scott is also donating 100% of proceeds from sales of the company’s Everlyne bracelets. (The bracelets are already sold out online, but are still available in stores.) James Avery Artisan Jeweler is donating 100% of proceeds from its “Deep in the Heart of Texas” charm, a small silver charm in the shape of Texas with a cut-out heart in the center. More on how businesses and corporations are helping relief efforts.