Bon Jovi’s Soup Kitchen Sparks Controversy in Toms River, NJ

TOMS RIVER, N.J. — Jon Bon Jovi‘s recent pop-up Soul Kitchen in Toms River has ignited criticism from Mayor Daniel Rodrick, who alleges that the operation is exacerbating the city’s homelessness crisis.

The JBJ Soul Kitchen opened on February 11 at the Ocean County Library and is intended to provide meals to those in need. However, Mayor Rodrick contends that the initiative has turned Toms River into a ‘ground zero for homelessness,’ citing safety concerns and rising disturbance reports.

In a phone interview with Fox News Digital, Rodrick expressed his frustration regarding the influx of homeless individuals. “We don’t want to be a dumping ground for the homeless problem in New Jersey. The state needs to step up and take care of this issue,” he said.

Rodrick’s concerns have deepened since taking office about a year ago. He mentioned previously shutting down homeless encampments, only to see new challenges arise after the Ocean County Board opened a warming center. “They started bussing people into town from all over,” he claimed. “Dozens and dozens of people are being dropped off at the library, where families should feel safe.”

Bon Jovi’s soup kitchen allows those who cannot pay to volunteer in exchange for meals, fostering an environment of community support. “We are committed to ending homelessness through real solutions. Our foundation has built nearly a thousand units of affordable and supportive housing,” said Bon Jovi in a statement.

The mayor, however, is concerned about the logistics and management of homeless services, saying, “It creates a public safety issue — no mother should have to walk through groups of intoxicated or mentally ill individuals just to get her child a book.”

Rodrick criticized the pop-up approach, recalling Bon Jovi’s previous operations that functioned more as restaurants, where patrons could feel good about their contributions toward community support. “This pop-up isn’t just about food; it’s about making the library a hub for homelessness,” he noted.

Bon Jovi’s organization has responded to these allegations, stating: “We invite anyone to see what we are doing to end homelessness and hunger in our community.”

The Soul Kitchen’s operations are planned to close in May, but Rodrick is also looking into potential legal actions against various nonprofits contributing to the issue. “Some are profiting from this crisis, and that needs to be addressed,” he remarked.

Despite the controversy, Bon Jovi maintains his commitment to helping those in need, emphasizing the importance of connecting individuals to various resources. His efforts have included not just food aid, but access to mental health and employment services as well.