The Taco Bell Foundation is awarding a record-breaking $32 million in Community Grants in 2026 – marking the second year that Community Lodgings has been selected as a grant recipient.
Community Lodgings is proud to announce it has been selected as a recipient of a 2026 Community Grant from the Taco Bell Foundation. The funding will support Community Lodgings’ Next Up Program helps youth gain access to ideas and understanding about the numerous options that are available after they graduate high school. The Next Up program includes vocational training, college tours and helps youth gain access to essential resources that will help them achieve their goals.
“We’re thankful to the Taco Bell Foundation for supporting Community Lodgings’ NextUp program, which helps young people build the skills, confidence, and self-awareness they need to pursue their higher education and create a pathway to a successful career,” said Lynn Thomas, Executive Director of Community Lodgings. “Every young person deserves the opportunity to dream big and have the tools and support to make those dreams a reality. We’re grateful for this investment in the next generation of leaders.”
2026 is Taco Bell Foundation’s biggest Community Grants year yet: a record $32 million supporting 700 nonprofits nationwide, representing a 40% increase in nonprofit partners from last year. Fueled by fans who Round Up their Taco Bell order totals, the investment is creating more opportunities for young people through education, career readiness, mentorship and youth empowerment.
“When you think about how this started, with fans giving a little extra at checkout, it’s incredible to see that generosity grow into $32 million for organizations serving young people across the country,” said Morgan Tabor, Executive Director of the Taco Bell Foundation. “What I love most about Community Grants is how local they are. Taco Bell franchisees know these organizations, they believe in their work, and together we’re helping more young people see just how much is possible for their futures.”
Through this grant, Community Lodgings will be able to expand its NextUp program to reach 13 additional students this year, providing them with mentorship, career exploration workshops, and hands-on skill-building opportunities designed to help them discover their strengths and chart a path toward higher education and long-term career success.
To learn more about Community Lodgings, please visit www.communitylodgings.org. To learn more about the Taco Bell Foundation and the Community Grants program, please visit https://www.tacobellfoundation.org/who-we-support/.
About Community Lodgings
Founded in 1987, Community Lodgings’ mission is to lift families from homelessness and instability to independence and self-sufficiency through Transitional Housing, Affordable Housing, and Youth Education Programs. Learn more on www.communitylodgings.org, Facebook or Instagram.
About Taco Bell Foundation
Taco Bell Foundation, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) public charity that empowers the next generation to pursue their passions by breaking down barriers to education and providing resources to help young people chase their boldest ambitions. Since 1992, the Taco Bell Foundation has reached more than 13 million young people across the country and has awarded more than $278 million in grants and scholarships, focused on education and career readiness. For more information about the Taco Bell Foundation, visit www.tacobellfoundation.org.
