As an estimated 1.4 million federal workers enter a third week either furloughed or working without pay, private nonprofits continue to show up in support of those impacted by the government shutdown.
Even rock stars like Jon Bon Jovi are doing their part.
The Jon Bon Jovi Soul Foundation — which was founded by John and Dorothea Bongiovi in 2006 — currently has five community kitchens throughout New Jersey.
Each location encourages customers to pay a suggested donation of $12 for a meal, or “pay it forward” for others in need. People who cannot afford to pay can also volunteer to work at the cafe.
But in addition to this everyday philanthropic effort, two restaurant locations (and one in-library pop-up) across New Jersey are offering free three-course meals to any furloughed government employee for the foreseeable future.
“If you’ve been affected by the government shutdown, JBJ Soul Kitchen is here as a resource. You’re welcome to enjoy a three-course, chef-prepared meal in a welcoming space,” the restaurant shared on social media earlier this week.
“Our doors are always open to the community. If you’re in need, please come by, we’re here to support you.”
All that is required, according to social media, is a valid government ID. Free meals are available during business hours at the kitchen’s Red Bank, Toms River, and Ocean County Library locations.
“As part of our mission, we’re dedicated to supporting our community,” another social media post shared. “While you enjoy a delicious meal, you can also learn about additional resources and support available to you.”
This isn’t the first time the Bongiovis have opened the doors of the kitchen to federal workers in need. During the government shutdown during Donald Trump’s first presidency in 2019, JBJ Soul Kitchen offered the same resources.
This year, it is estimated that around 48,000 federal employees in New Jersey alone — about half of whom are serving in the U.S. military — face the prospect of working without pay or being furloughed.
The last government shutdown lasted 35 days, and it’s unclear how long federal employees should prepare to be without pay now.
But in the face of uncertainty, JBJ Soul Kitchen remains a constant.
Since its founding, the organization has celebrated serving over 200,000 meals to people in need, confronted skeptics about their work, and created a loyal community of supporters who happily “pay it forward” when they dine at the Bongiovi’s establishments.
“When we first opened, people did not understand our unique ‘Pay It Forward’ model,” Dorothea Bongiovi, wife of John Bongiovi, said earlier this year.
“We are not a soup kitchen. We are not a pay-what-you-want restaurant. We are a unique ‘Pay It Forward’ model where those who are unable to pay volunteer their time. Those who can pay, pay for their meal and donate to pay it forward. Everyone has the same amazing meal.”
John Bongiovi added: “This model has now been proven time and time again for well over a decade.”
Their supporters seem to be on the same page.
“If you can, stop in, buy a lovely meal in a cool place, and pay forward by paying for a second meal to cover someone in need,” one person commented on the Soul Kitchen’s Instagram post announcing the offer for furloughed employees.
Another added, with clapping emojis and hearts: “This is how you do it.”
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Header images courtesy of JBJ Soul Kitchen and Jon Bon Jovi/Facebook
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