Franklin's Backyard BBQ raises funds for Harvey relief

As if Texans didn't have enough on their plates, last month FOX 7 News was first on scene when the iconic Franklin Barbecue caught fire.

The BBQ joint closed its doors temporarily because of the structural damage to the property.

However, Pitmaster Aaron Franklin isn't letting that stop him from stepping up and helping fellow Texans.

He hosted the "Franklin's Backyard Barbecue" fundraiser for Hurricane Harvey relief efforts, at the Red River music venue the Mohawk. "It seemed like a no brainer I mean a bunch of terrible stuff happened with Harvey and a lot of people need some help. Just doing what we can do," said Franklin.

The benefit gave some the opportunity to taste the world famous barbecue for the first time while giving back.

"It's just sublime it's the most tender BBQ brisket I have ever had in my life,” said Terri Bucar. "The people devastated by Harvey and I think it's important to come together as a community and do what we can to help fellow Texans who are in need."

Locals know the wait time at Franklin's can tick into the hours, but when it comes to the lines at Sunday’s fundraiser; customers said the wait was well worth it. "We want them to wrap around the building 5 to 10 times. I hope people keep coming," said Bucar.

A group of Australians who were on a road trip planned to stop by Houston but their plans changed after the hurricane hit. "We were going to Houston but now that it all happened we changed our plans," said James Rousset.

He said social media informed them that Franklin was going to be hosting Hurricane Harvey relief efforts.

Rousset said the food tastes even better when it's for a good cause.

"We got to many meat sweats. But glad we can put our part in to make a little change," said Roussett.

As the famed pitmaster works to get his own business back up and running, he is making light out of a bad situation. "Wasn’t the greatest of fire, it was over cooked," said Franklin.

Franklin said 100% of the proceeds raised Sunday will go directly to the Global Giving’s Hurricane Harvey Relief Fund. They will also host another event next Sunday at 11 a.m. 

Tickets are $30 at the door and first come first serve.
               
As for when Franklin Barbecue could reopen its doors, Franklin is hoping to be running again in November.