Whataburger has mobilized a powerful show of solidarity with communities affected by the recent Central Texas flooding. Throughout July 2025, the Texas-born fast-food giant is donating 100% of proceeds from its special-edition 75th anniversary collectible cups to flood-relief efforts. The initiative began on July 9 and runs through July 31, with each cup priced around $2 before tax.
In addition to cup sales, Whataburger has committed a direct contribution of $100,000 to local organizations providing disaster relief. The funds are earmarked for multiple critical purposes: immediate disaster response, rebuilding initiatives, and support for mental health services for those impacted in the Texas Hill Country. Texas Agriculture Commissioner Sid Miller, a sponsor of the Go Texan program, praised the effort: “That’s not just good business, that’s being a good neighbor … When historic floods hit the Hill Country, Whataburger didn’t hesitate.”
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Whataburger immediately sprang into action as flooding hit Kerrville and surrounding Hill Country communities—including Ingram, Hunt, and Center Point—following severe storms over the July 4th holiday weekend. The company distributed hot meals to first responders, emergency personnel, and relief volunteers on the ground.
This long-standing community support builds on Whataburger’s ethos: a Texas-founded company with over 1,100 restaurants across 17 states. Local recovery efforts, especially in Central Texas, are among the highest priorities during this time of need.
The commemorative cups—priced around $2—feature rotating designs, celebrating the brand’s 75-year heritage. The special release began on June 10, with the first collection running through July. Every dollar from each cup purchased at participating locations goes directly to flood recovery. CEO Debbie Stroud stated: “Our hearts are with everyone affected … Every cup purchased, every dollar raised helps bring hope and healing to the families and communities who need it most.”
In a parallel show of Texan community spirit, Gruene Hall—the state’s oldest continually operating dance hall—organized a benefit event, “Dance Hall to Dance Hall,” on July 20 in New Braunfels. The fundraiser supports Crider’s Rodeo & Dancehall in Hunt, which was damaged by the same floods right during its 100th-anniversary celebration.
Featured acts included artists like the South Austin Moonlighters, Oscar Ornelas, Ryan Ross & Zach Blue, Ben McPeak, and Austin Gilliam. All profits from alcohol and apparel sold during the event were donated toward Crider’s rebuilding efforts.
This wave of community and corporate support extends beyond Whataburger and Gruene Hall. McDonald’s, through owner-operator franchises in North, South, and Central Texas, ran a “Texas Together” fundraiser on July 15, donating a portion of sales to The Salvation Army’s disaster relief efforts. Major brands like H‑E‑B contributed $5 million, while jewelers James Avery Artisan Jewelry pledged $1 million, and the Houston Livestock Show & Rodeo added $500,000. Sports franchises—including the Houston Texans, Astros, Rockets, and others—committed over $5 million in financial pledges. The Texas Hill Country arts community, such as the Hill Country Arts Foundation in Ingram, also suffered damage. Volunteers have rallied to aid cleanup and rebuild efforts.
The July 4th floods inflicted historic damage. At least 120 people died, including many from Camp Mystic, near Hunt. Serious flash flooding destroyed homes, submerged venues like Crider’s, and turned community hubs into recovery sites.
Recovery is ongoing. Corporate participation—like Whataburger’s cup campaign and Gruene Hall’s benefit—helps bolster both immediate relief and long-term rebuilding across the region.
Texans looking to contribute can visit Whataburger before July 31 and purchase one of the collector cups. All proceeds will directly support flood-impacted communities. Donations and participation in other local fundraisers also help address housing, mental health, and infrastructure repair.
Through its cups, donations, and on-the-ground efforts, Whataburger has underscored its commitment to Texans in need—demonstrating that even fast-food chains can stand a strong chance at making a meaningful difference in disaster zones. This collaboration of businesses, venues, and individuals showcases the enduring power of community resilience across Central Texas.
