TOMS RIVER – The JBJ Soul Kitchen Pop-Up at the Ocean County Library will continue serving meals and connecting guests with essential services through the end of August, organizers announced.
Since opening in February inside the library’s Toms River branch at 101 Washington Street, the nonprofit Pay It Forward café has served more than 2,600 meals to the community. The initiative, inspired by the JBJ Soul Kitchen’s established model, offers nutritious, chef-prepared meals for a suggested donation or in exchange for volunteer time—ensuring all guests are treated with dignity regardless of their ability to pay.
The pop-up offers a range of wraps, bowls, sandwiches, and salads, as well as an à la carte menu for guests on the go. Operating Tuesday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., the café is located steps from the Toms River Bus Terminal, Bright Harbor Healthcare, NJ Reentry Corporation, and South Jersey Legal Services.
Of the meals served so far, 45% were paid for through donations while 55% were earned through volunteering. Organizers say about 75% of volunteer diners are residents of Toms River and neighboring towns including Bayville, Manchester, and South Toms River.
According to the 2024 Point-in-Time Count, 556 people are experiencing homelessness in Ocean County, with nearly half identifying Toms River as home. The pop-up café has identified 50 regular diners who are unhoused. In addition to meals, the café connects guests with partner agencies offering vital resources. Referrals include:
- 10 to New Jersey Reentry Corporation
- 6 to Toms River Housing Coalition
- 4 to South Jersey Legal Services
- 3 each to Affordable Housing Alliance, CREST, and the Mental Health Association
- 2 to Ocean Health Initiatives
These efforts have already helped two guests secure permanent housing, while four more are in the placement process.
One notable success story involves a man who initially arrived without ID or access to medication and is now engaged with NJRC programming and reconnecting with mental health care.
JBJ Soul Kitchen welcomes individuals looking to enjoy a meal, volunteer, or support the mission. Community groups are also invited to meet with guests during operating hours.
For more information, visit jbjsoulkitchen.org
