Date set for annual Oyster & Gumbo Supper benefiting local nonprofits

A community-cherished Beaumont tradition returns as First United Methodist Church prepares to host its annual Oyster & Gumbo Supper on Thursday, Feb. 26, continuing a legacy that dates back nearly nine decades.

Since 1937, the church has welcomed the community to gather around good food for a greater cause, using all proceeds from the supper to support local nonprofit organizations serving Southeast Texas families and children. This year's event will benefit Some Other Place, Sleep in Heavenly Peace, Rainbow Room, Once Upon a Dream Childcare Center, Lamar WEsley Foundation, and the Chrysalis Youth Scholarship Fund. 

Last year alone, the fundraiser generated more than $14,000 for partner organizations — a touted testament to the community's generosity and the event's long-standing impact. 

"This supper is more than just a meal," said Kyle Tremblay, Pastor of Community Development at First UMC Beaumont and Campus Pastor for the Lamar Wesley Foundation. "It's a way for our church and our neighbors to come together and love the city with the heart of Christ while directly supporting organizations that make a real difference in people's lives."

The Oyster & Gumbo Supper will take place from 4:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. at First United Methodist Church, 701 Calder Ave. in downtown Beaumont. Guests can dine in or choose carry-out options. Tickets are $35 and include an all-you-can-eat- feast featuring raw and fried oysters, chicken and sausage gumbo, French fries, and Cole slaw. 

Families are encouraged to attend, as children 10 and under eat free.  

Organizers say the supper not only provides an affordable and delicious dinner option but also gives residents a simple way to invest in local programs that provide housing support, childcare resources, youth development, food assistance, and scholarship opportunities. 

Community partnerships allow FUMC to extend help beyond their walls with every tickets purchased helping strengthen programs that directly serve the community.

For more information about the event, contact First United Methodist Church of Beaumont Pastor of Comunity Development Kyle Tremblay or visit the church's website at fumcbeaumont.org.