NEWARK, N.J.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Five years ago, JBJ Soul Kitchen Rutgers University–Newark (RU–N) opened its doors with a mission to combat food insecurity among college students. Today, the restaurant celebrates this milestone with a growing community of supporters, sponsors, and students who have made its mission stronger than ever.
“It’s hard to believe, but one in three students attending a four-year college struggle with the issue of food insecurity,” said Jon Bon Jovi, Board Chairman, JBJ Soul Foundation. “When we opened the first JBJ Soul Kitchen on a college campus, we wanted to create a model where no student had to choose between education and nourishment. Five years later, it’s inspiring to see the continued success of this partnership with Gourmet Dining and Rutgers–Newark.”
To mark this five-year milestone, JBJ Soul Kitchen will host a special celebration on October 30th during extended restaurant hours from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Guests are invited to enjoy a delicious, three-course meal and join the celebration, which include giveaways such as Apple AirPods and Whole Foods gift cards, generously donated by local partners and supporters. Three grand prizes will be awarded, featuring four VIP New York Jets tickets to a game of your choice and an exclusive getaway to Crystal Springs Resort.
Since opening, JBJ Soul Kitchen RU-N has served over 14,000 meals to students, faculty, and community members. Each meal provides dignity along with delicious, healthy food. The restaurant’s pay-it-forward model allows guests to make a suggested donation or use a donated meal plan swipe, ensuring that all diners can enjoy a three-course, chef-prepared meal regardless of financial means.
This milestone is more than a number, it reflects the impact of collaboration, compassion, and purpose-driven innovation. “The JBJ Soul Kitchen model is a testament to the power of community university partnerships to address real challenges,” said Tonya Smith-Jackson, Chancellor at Rutgers-Newark. She adds, “At RU-N, we are unapologetically committed to building inclusive pathways to success – and that commitment must include access to real, nourishing food. Intellectual growth demands more than opportunity; it demands sustenance.”
Over the past five years, the restaurant has seen steady growth, with a notable rise in the number of in-need guests served. Today, more than 50% of guests served are individuals in need, a powerful testament that the restaurant is doing exactly what it set out to do: support students and fight food insecurity on campus.
“As a community restaurant, we are proud to be a place where everyone belongs,” said Michael Frungillo, President of Gourmet Dining. “Our growth proves the model works, it brings people together, feeds those in need, and empowers those who can give back to do so.”
This anniversary also celebrates the strength of community partnerships that have sustained the restaurant’s mission. Organizations like the Newark Teachers Association, Rutgers Police Department, and student groups such as SORAH (Students Organized Rutgers Against Hunger) have become vital advocates, helping to raise awareness and ensure continued support for students facing food insecurity. Equally important is the strong partnership with RU-N Pantry+, working together to support the community through access to nutritious food and essential resources. Together, these two important resources for students collaborate on educational initiatives and outreach efforts.
“Our JBJ Soul Kitchen family has grown thanks to student organizations and faculty who see the power of community dining,” said Dorothea Bongiovi, Founder of JBJ Soul Kitchen. “We are so proud that over half of our meals now go to students and guests in need, that’s how we know this initiative is truly making a difference.”
Every meal served at JBJ Soul Kitchen reflects the belief that food is a human right, not a privilege. With a rotating menu of fresh, locally sourced, and nutritious dishes including halal, vegan, and gluten-free options.
About JBJ Soul Foundation and JBJ Soul Kitchen
Since 2006, the Jon Bon Jovi Soul Foundation has worked to break the cycle of poverty, homelessness, and hunger in communities across America. Through grant funding of local and national partner projects and creating sustainable programs, the Jon Bon Jovi Soul Foundation has helped provide funding for over 1,000 units of affordable housing and shelter in 12 states and Washington DC for thousands of individuals and families experiencing homelessness and financial instability including youth and veterans. For more information, please visit jbjsf.org.
The Foundation expanded its mission in 2011 to address issues of food insecurity and currently operates three JBJ Soul Kitchen community restaurants. One in Red Bank, NJ and two in Toms River, NJ, in addition to the new JBJ Soul Kitchen at Rutgers University – Newark. JBJ Soul Kitchen serves nutritious, culinary dishes using a ‘pay it forward’ model where there are no prices on the menu but instead you are encouraged to make a suggested donation. If you are unable to donate, you are invited to join our community to learn about volunteer opportunities and resources. Since its inception, the Kitchens have served over 230,070 meals, reaching the goal of serving 58% of paying diners and 42% of diners’ in-need. For more information, please visit jbjsoulkitchen.org.
Location:
JBJ Soul Kitchen Rutgers University–Newark
Paul Robeson Campus Center, 350 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd., Newark, NJ
Open for Lunch: Monday–Friday, 11:30 a.m.–2:00 p.m.
About Rutgers University–Newark
Rutgers University–Newark (RU-N) is a remarkably diverse, urban, public research university deeply integrated with its home city. As an anchor institution, it serves as a powerful engine for social mobility, economic growth, and civic engagement in the greater Newark area and beyond. RU-N has been named among the most diverse universities nationwide. by U.S. News & World Report for over two decades. With over 136,000 living alumni, RU-N continues to increase its impact.
Contacts
Carrie Stetler, Assistant Director of Media Relations, [email protected], 973-229-8351
