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Toms River Mayor Challenges JBJ Soul Kitchen Over Library Pop-Up

Mayor Daniel Rodrick claims the initiative attracts homeless individuals, while county officials and the JBJ Soul Foundation dispute the allegations.

Musician and community activist Jon Bon Jovi at the grand opening celebration of The Soul Kitchen on Oct. 19, 2011 in Red Bank, N.J.
The entrance to the main branch of the Ocean County Library in Toms River, April 3, 2025.
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Overview

  • The JBJ Soul Kitchen pop-up, operating at the Ocean County Library in Toms River since February 2025, is under scrutiny as its temporary lease approaches expiration in May.
  • Mayor Daniel Rodrick has criticized the initiative, alleging it functions as a day shelter and draws a problematic homeless population to the library area.
  • County officials, including Commissioner Robert Arace, dispute the mayor's claims, stating there is no evidence of increased incidents or safety concerns linked to the pop-up.
  • The JBJ Soul Kitchen operates on a pay-it-forward model, offering meals for a suggested price and providing volunteering opportunities for those unable to pay.
  • The future of the pop-up remains uncertain as local and county officials consider safety measures and weigh the program's impact on the community.