Did you know that one in three students attending a four-year college are food insecure? With the widespread growth of food insecurity among college students, JBJ Soul Kitchen has partnered with food service provider, Gourmet Dining to establish locations on the campus of Rutgers University – Newark (RU-N) and New Jersey City University (NJCU). This unique way of approaching this challenge within our communities can have an everlasting impact for the surrounding communities in both Newark and Jersey City. 

Our college locations actively address the issues of food insecurity by implementing measures such as partnering with their food pantry, organizing a care team, and collaborating with student organizations dedicated to fighting hunger. The opening of JBJ Soul Kitchen further enhances the collective efforts of the campuses to combat food insecurity, providing additional opportunities for the community to unite and work together on solutions.

Studies show that the rate of food insecure students is growing among college campuses. At Rutgers University – Newark, over 50 percent of students face exceptional financial needs and 60 percent of students struggle to pay for their food. At New Jersey City University, more than 60 percent of students have exceptional financial needs. 

The partnership we share with Gourmet Dining is a collaboration that aims to provide healthy and delicious meals to students, faculty, and community members. The initiative is the first of its kind, bringing the JBJ Soul Kitchen concept to a college campus. 

“Food insecurity is one of the most critical issues college students face today,” said Jon Bon Jovi, Board Chairman, JBJ Soul Foundation.

JBJ Soul Kitchen at RU-N and NJCU offers a unique dining experience where everyone, regardless of their socioeconomic situation, enjoys the same chef-created, three-course meal. The menu changes weekly, featuring a variety of appetizers, main courses, desserts, and gluten-free options.

“What makes the JBJ Soul Kitchen model special is that it’s designed so that everyone can enjoy a healthy, delicious meal and dine with dignity – whether you’re hungry or hungry to make a difference,” added Dorothea Bongiovi, Founder, JBJ Soul Kitchen.