TOMS RIVER – The heat was on at the 10th Annual JBJ Soul Kitchen Chili Cook-Off, where Ocean County Sheriff’s PBA Local #379 took home first place honors. Lt. Jamie Phillips and Sgt. Robert Stark served up what judges called the best chili of the day.
The popular fall event brought together local first responders in a friendly competition to support JBJ Soul Kitchen’s mission of fighting food insecurity. The nonprofit community restaurant, founded by the Jon Bon Jovi Soul Foundation, provides meals to both paying customers and those in need.
Guests who can’t pay are invited to dine and learn about volunteering, while those who can are encouraged to “pay it forward” to help others.
This year’s cook-off marked a special milestone — a decade of chili, community, and compassion in Toms River. Proceeds from the event benefit JBJ Soul Kitchen’s programs, which promote dignity, respect, and shared responsibility through food.
Although rock icon Jon Bon Jovi doesn’t always attend the event, he made a special appearance this year, much to the delight of guests and competitors. His presence underscored the spirit of the day — neighbors helping neighbors over a bowl of homemade chili.
The JBJ Soul Kitchen Pop-Up at the Ocean County Library will remain open through January 30, 2026, the Jon Bon Jovi Soul Foundation recently announced.
The extension comes as the community heads into the critical fall and winter months, when Code Blue alerts increase and shelter becomes scarce. Organizers said this may be the final extension due to limited support.
Since opening in February, the pop-up at 101 Washington Street has provided hot, chef-prepared meals under the same model as other JBJ Soul Kitchen locations. Guests may contribute a suggested donation or volunteer in exchange for a meal. Through the Pay It Forward program, paying customers cover meals for those in need.
For more information, visit jbjsoulkitchen.org.
