Mayor’s Concerns

In a recent interview, Toms River Mayor Daniel Rodrick expressed his frustrations regarding Bon Jovi’s JBJ Soul Kitchen, which opened as a pop-up in the public library on February 11. Mayor Rodrick suggested that the soup kitchen is attracting homelessness to Toms River and complicating the city’s ongoing efforts to manage this issue.

“We don’t want to be ground zero for homelessness. The state of New Jersey needs to step up and take care of this problem,” said Rodrick, underscoring the need for larger systemic solutions rather than merely relocating individuals.

Soup Kitchen’s Offerings

The JBJ Soul Kitchen, part of Bon Jovi’s charitable initiatives, aims to provide meals to those in need, with a unique model that allows patrons to pay it forward. Customers can contribute a suggested $12 for meals, while those unable to pay are encouraged to volunteer in exchange for food.

This establishment operates four locations in New Jersey and is open from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Tuesday through Friday.

Bon Jovi’s Response

In defense of the initiative, Bon Jovi and his wife, Dorothea, issued a statement highlighting their commitment to addressing homelessness through tangible solutions, rather than simply managing the symptoms.

“Our Foundation has built nearly a thousand units of affordable and supportive housing. Through our JBJ Soul Kitchen, we connect people to resources and services,” they remarked.

The couple invited skeptics to visit their facilities and witness their efforts to combat homelessness and hunger firsthand.

The Broader Issue

Rodrick’s concerns go beyond Bon Jovi’s kitchen. The mayor has noted a troubling trend since taking office, identifying issues stemming from the establishment of a warming center by the Ocean County Board, which has resulted in an influx of individuals from surrounding regions into Toms River.

He highlighted how local resources are being stretched thin as they manage the impact of numerous homeless individuals in densely populated areas, notably around the public library:

“You shouldn’t have to walk through gangs of two dozen intoxicated or mentally ill homeless individuals,” Rodrick stressed, noting increased police and emergency response calls from the area.

Future Actions

While the JBJ Soul Kitchen is scheduled to close in May as it is a temporary establishment, Mayor Rodrick stated that he is considering legal action against certain nonprofits responsible for exacerbating the situation in Toms River. He clarified that this approach would not target Bon Jovi’s soup kitchen specifically.

“It’s about creating a coordinated response to a complex issue rather than a one-off solution that could worsen the situation,” he concluded.