Jon Bon Jovi Donates For Expansion Of Hoboken Veterans' Shelter

HOBOKEN, NJ — New Jersey rocker Jon Bon Jovi has donated $100,000 for the expansion of a new shelter in Hoboken for homeless veterans.

After the headquarters of American Legion Post 107 in Hoboken was destroyed by Superstorm Sandy in 2012, the post moved forward with a new, flood-resistant building on Second Street, including six units of affordable housing for homeless veterans.

The post plans to add 18 furnished units, which the donation will help.

The donation comes from Bon Jovi's Soul Foundation, which fights hunger, poverty, and homelessness through grants and through the rocker's pay-what-you-can restaurants in New Jersey. READ MORE: Diners Can 'Pay It Foward' With Meals.

“JBJ Soul Foundation is dedicated to continuing our work with veterans, addressing issues of hunger and homelessness, and we are all inspired by the Veterans Center of Hoboken,” said Bon Jovi. “The Center is not only expanding with 18 additional furnished housing units, but is also providing services including physical and mental health care and employment opportunities."

“We know that even one homeless veteran living on the streets is one too many,” said Commander John Carey of Hoboken Post 107. “They are heroes who served our country and sacrificed, and now need a helping hand. We are grateful to the JBJ Soul Foundation."

“I believe we have a moral duty to ensure the men and women who honorably served our country have a roof over their heads and receive the critical support services they deserve after all they have given our nation," said Hoboken 5th Ward Councilman Phil Cohen.

Beginning Monday, July 12, donations from individuals, civic groups, small businesses, and corporations will be matched dollar for dollar until the challenge grant is fulfilled. Gifts from $25 to $25,000 are eligible.

To Support the Veterans Center of Hoboken, visit Hobokenlegion.org/give or mail a check (made payable to Veterans Center of Hoboken) to 308 2nd Street, Hoboken, NJ 07030.

The JBJ Soul Foundation has supported more than 700 units of affordable and supportive housing in 11 states for youths and veterans, and through its meals at JBJ Soul Kitchens, where diners can volunteer hours or donate for their meals.

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