Michael Huff, Area Businesses Team Up To Feed Hungry Austinites

AUSTIN, TX — With access to water and power limited in Austin, many are relying on area restaurants and food trucks for hot meals, drinkable water and hot beverages.

But between the coronavirus pandemic, high unemployment rates and limited access to transportation, some are unable to afford food.

This week, money will not a barrier to a hot meal this week in Austin — not if Deep Eddy vodka, Red Bull, former NFL player Michael Huff and others have anything to say about it.

A University of Texas alumnus and former NFL player, Huff said Thursday on Twitter that he had purchased 1,000 tacos from Juan in a Million, an East Austin Taco shop.

"I’ve paid for 1,000 tacos in advance," Huff wrote on Twitter. "Let’s feed as many people as we can and only take what you need."

The tacos are available at 2300 E Cesar Chavez St. on a first-come, first served basis.

But Huff isn't the only one tackling hunger in Austin. Deep Eddy, a locally made vodka company, is also working to spread the wealth this week.

The liquor producer is using its Instagram account to promote area giveaways provided by companies like Bev, Affinipay, Red Bull and more.

Here's where meals are being distributed on Thursday:

Central Austin

Red Bull has purchased 125 meals for anyone who can safely walk to Vaquero Taquero from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., or until supplies run out. Food is distributed on a walk-up basis only.

Customers must mention Deep Eddy Vodka or Red Bull for a free meal of two tacos and beans per person.

The restaurant is located at 104 E. 31st St.

Downtown Austin

Spa Sway has purchased 312 meals for anyone who can safely walk to Hestia Austin. Distribution is from 2 to 5 p.m., or until supplies run out, on a walk-up basis.

The restaurant is located at 607 W. 3rd St., Suite 105.

South Austin

Red Bull bought 125 meals for anyone who can safely walk to Tommy Want Wingy from 11 a.m., until supplies run out. The restaurant is walk-up only, and customers must call from the gate.

Customers must mention Deep Eddy vodka for 1 free meal per person. Meals consist of 10 naked wings and fries and sauce of choice (no dry sauces).

The restaurant is located at 121 Pickle Rd.

Cedar Park

Fintech company AffiniPay has purchased 115 large single topping pizzas for anyone who can safely walk to Maggiores at 1420 Cypress Creek Rd, Suite 1000.

To receive a meal, customers must order online for curbside pickup and use the online ordering button to receive complimentary food.

East Austin

Karbach Brewing and beverage brand Bev have purchased 150 chicken sandwiches and sides of tater tots from Flyrite Chicken at 2129 E 7th Street. Walk-up only.

Food is distributed from noon until supplies run out. Customers must mention Karbach or Bev to receive one free meal per person.

East Austin

Austin Eastciders has purchased 50 meals for anyone who can walk safely to Dripping Springs Tender Co. at 979 Springdale Rd from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. or until supplies run out.

Customers must mention Austin Eastciders or Deep Eddy for one free meal per person. Meals are made up of a little dipper chicken tender combo or tempeh tenders, one side and dipping sauce.

Mueller

Austin Eastciders has purchased 25 meals for anyone who can safely walk to Rebel Cheese, 2200 Aldrich St., starting at noon. Mention Eastciders or Deep Eddy to receive one cheese plate and one bubbly prebiotic drink per person.

East Austin

Affinipay has purchased 200 meals for anyone who can safely walk to Uncle Nicky’s ATX East Austin, 1123 E 11th st., from 2 to 6 p.m. Meals include pasta and bolognese or pasta and vegan red sauce.

Hyde Park

Affinipay has purchased 200 meals for anyone who can safely walk to Uncle Nicky’s ATX Hyde Park, 4222 Duval St., from 2 to 6 p.m. Customers can receive a pasta bowl with a vegetarian option.