TOMS RIVER – The Toms River Branch of the Ocean County Library is now also the newest location for the JBJ Soul Kitchen Pop-Up.

This expansion furthers the JBJ Soul Foundation's commitment to combating food insecurity and fostering a welcoming space where all individuals can enjoy a nutritious meal, regardless of their ability to pay.

Deputy Director of the Ocean County Board of Commissioners Frank Sadeghi and Ocean County Commissioner and Liaison to the Ocean County Library Board of Commissioners Jennifier Bacchione were able to visit the space a few days prior to the grand opening and were very impressed with the new addition to the Toms River Branch.

Commissioner Sadeghi had this to say, "Having the JBJ Soul Kitchen Pop-Up be a part of the main branch of the Ocean County Library provides great opportunities for the library café and the JBJ Soul Kitchen Pop-Up. It has been a while since the space has been filled and this type of coordination will bring a lot of benefits to everyone involved. I appreciate the work of both the library and the JBJ Soul Kitchen Pop-Up to make this happen."

Commissioner Bacchione added, "We are thrilled to welcome the JBJ Soul Kitchen Pop-Up to the downtown Toms River Branch of the Ocean County Library. This incredible addition not only enhances our community, but also provides a welcoming space where people can come together over great food and a shared mission. We encourage everyone who works, shops, and visits our library to stop in for coffee or lunch and experience their delicious menu. We look forward to seeing this "pop-up" thrive and become a cherished part of our downtown while it is in operation."

Ocean County Library's management team shared in the excitement of this new collaboration.

"This new JBJ Soul Kitchen Pop-Up location at our Toms River Branch represents another step in our mission to collaborate with organizations that treat everyone with dignity and respect, no matter their socioeconomic status," said Library Director Susan Quinn. "By forming this partnership, we are reinforcing the idea that nourishment extends beyond food—it's about community, education, and support."

"Forming this collaboration between the library and the JBJ Soul Kitchen Pop-Up is a wonderful addition to our community and we are very excited to have them join us at the Toms River Branch," said Assistant Director Sara Siegler.

The temporary JBJ Soul Kitchen Pop-Up offers diners to pay for their meals and have the opportunity to pay it forward, assisting those unable to pay who have volunteered in exchange for a meal. The goal is to create an inclusive environment where individuals and families facing food insecurity can enjoy a warm, welcoming dining experience alongside other community members.

Rob Wood, Assistant General Manager of JBJ Soul Kitchen, expressed his excitement about the new location, "We are here to create a positive impact on the Toms River community," Rob added. "Whether you are here for a meal, to volunteer, or to Pay It Forward, every small act helps make a big difference in someone's life."

JBJ Soul Kitchen Pop-Up operating hours are Tuesday through Friday from 10:00AM – 2:00PM. They are closed on Sunday and Monday.

Contact: Sherri Taliercio
(732) 349-6200 ext. 5909
staliercio@theoceancountylibrary.org