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In a world where fast food often satisfies little more than a growling stomach, Taco Bueno is proving that tacos can feed the soul and fuel social change.

The Tex-Mex chain’s “Tacos with a Purpose” program has transformed routine meal purchases into a powerful weapon against domestic violence, raising over $117,000 since June to support survivors in Oklahoma and Texas.

This initiative invites diners to round up their bills to the nearest dollar or make additional donations, turning everyday tacos into agents of change. Across 113 locations, Taco Bueno is serving up more tacos and burritos — it’s dishing out a hefty helping of community support.

In Oklahoma, where the shadow of domestic violence looms large, the program has collected $43,409.76. The state’s struggle is stark. The National Coalition Against Domestic Violence reports that 40.7% of women and 35.5% of men in Oklahoma experience intimate partner violence in their lifetimes.

The Moore location emerged as the state’s fundraising champion, generating $2,841 and demonstrating that even in small towns, big changes can begin with a simple taco order.

“We’re leveraging our presence in local communities to make a tangible impact on those affected by domestic violence,” Robert Sanders, Taco Bueno’s vice president, said. “Every taco sold through this program represents hope and support for survivors.”

The campaign benefits Palomar, an Oklahoma City nonprofit offering comprehensive services for victims of domestic violence, child abuse, sexual assault, stalking, elder abuse, and human trafficking. Palomar’s wraparound services aim to help survivors heal and rebuild their lives in a safe, supportive environment.

“When we were first told about the Tacos With a Purpose program, I was excited to find that we were partnering with Palomar as I already was supporting Palomar in my personal life,” said Heather Creel, general manager at Taco Bueno in Edmond.

“I already knew that they handled donations responsibly and ethically as well as helping a large scope of local people in need. This made it very easy to communicate the purpose of our rounding up for Palomar to our team and our community of customers. Many of them have had their own stories to tell us of their journeys and how Palomar personally helped them.”

Through Palomar’s collaboration with over 45 partner agencies in the metro, Palomar is a one stop shop for survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, stalking, child and elder abuse seeking wraparound resources such as emergency services, legal assistance, housing assistance, children’s sanctuary, holistic healing, offender accountability and animal advocacy.

“Some of our customers have also taken brochures to people they feel are in need of Palomar’s support and reported to us that they were able to get the help those people needed quickly and without stress or judgment,” said Creel. “Overall for me personally, I have found that being a part of this program through Taco Bueno and Tacos with a Purpose has been a very positive experience for myself and my team, and we look forward to seeing the changes for the better we can make as the program goes on into the New Year.”

In Texas, where the program has raised $74,204.20, proceeds go to The Family Place, the state’s largest family violence service provider. Now in its 46th year of operation, The Family Place offers vital resources including shelter, counseling, and advocacy programs.

For Domestic Violence Awareness Month in October, Taco Bueno is amplifying its commitment by pledging to match donations up to $10,000. This additional support aims to boost the program’s impact during a critical time for awareness and action.

The company is also extending its support network internally, providing resources and assistance to its own employees and customers affected by domestic violence. This comprehensive approach reflects Taco Bueno’s understanding that the issue touches all aspects of the communities it serves.