Passion for Purple Luncheon

Standing Strong with Survivors.

Join us for the 3rd Annual Passion for Purple Luncheon, a powerful and inspiring event benefiting survivors at the Janelle Grum Family Crisis Center of East Texas. This year's luncheon features special keynote speakers Nichole and Jim Schmidt, the mother and stepfather of Gabby Petito. Through their personal story and advocacy work, Nichole and Jim are raising national awareness for domestic violence prevention and the importance of action in missing persons cases.

This signature event unites community members, advocates, and supporters to stand in solidarity with survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault. Funds raised from the luncheon directly support emergency shelter, advocacy, counseling, and critical services provided by the agency.

Enjoy a meaningful program, lunch, and the opportunity to hear from voices creating real change across the country. Together, we can break the cycle of violence and bring hope and healing to East Texas. Attendees will also have the chance to win exciting raffle prizes, and contribute to a cause that truly makes a difference. Tickets are $50 each, with table sponsorships available for $500. With limited sponsorship opportunities, this highly anticipated event is expected to sell out quickly.

Reserve your seat today and turn the community purple for a purpose.

Passion for Purple Luncheon
Pitser Garrison Convention Center

Pitser Garrison Convention Center

601 N. 2nd St. Lufkin

Tuesday, October 7, 2025 11:30 am

Tuesday, October 7, 2025 11:30 am

Tables & Tickets

Tables & Tickets

Call Melissa Wheeler at 936-639-1681 or email mwheeler@fccet.com for more information.

Passion for Purple Luncheon & Pajama Donation Drive

Prepare for an unforgettable afternoon of solidarity and hope at the 3rd Annual Passion for Purple Luncheon, presented by the Janelle Grum Family Crisis Center of East Texas. This impactful event, set for Tuesday, October 7, 2025, at 11:30 a.m. at the Pitser Garrison Convention Center, marks a cornerstone in Domestic Violence Awareness Month.

In conjunction with this year's luncheon, the agency is seeking new pajamas for women and children in all sizes. These pajamas are more than just clothing-they provide survivors with a sense of safety, comfort, and normalcy during one of the most vulnerable moments of their lives. You can bring warmth, dignity, and healing to those who need it most.

Community members, churches, schools, and local businesses are encouraged to host pajama drives or drop off donations directly at the agency offices during normal business hours through Friday, October 3, 2025, or drop off at The UPS Store at 3009 S John Redditt Dr. E, Lufkin, TX 75904. Donations can also be dropped off at the Passion for Purple luncheon. A pajama drive Amazon wish list link can be found below.

The Purple Promise: Be the Lifeline. Be the Hope.

The Purple Promise: Be the Lifeline. Be the Hope.

Every survivor deserves more than just a way out - they deserve a way forward.

The Purple Promise is a monthly giving program that turns your compassion into action - supporting survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault in East Texas every single day. Your monthly gift fuels 24/7 crisis response, emergency shelter and transitional housing, legal and personal advocacy, counseling and child advocacy, and a path to healing, one brave step at a time.

Change the life of a survivor and their family. Donors who give $35/month or more will receive a Passion for Purple t-shirt as a thank-you for standing with survivors.

When you join The Purple Promise, you're not just making a donation. You're making a promise-to never let a survivor walk alone. Start your promise today.