700+ Unite For Annual ‘Day Of Hope’ Walk In Red Bank

RED BANK, NJ — Over 700 community members came together on Tuesday for JBJ Soul Kitchen’s Annual “Day of Hope” Walk, transforming the streets of Red Bank into a celebration of community and collaboration.

In the event’s largest turnout to date, hundreds of community members and over 70 organizations came together to walk in support of local organizations and the collective mission of helping neighbors in need.

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Organizations had the opportunity to reconnect with existing partners, introduce themselves to new organizations they may not have known existed right here in their community, and network to build new partnerships.

Created by JBJ Soul Kitchen Founder Dorothea Bongiovi, the Day of Hope Walk started in 2017 to shine a light on the organizations, volunteers, advocates, and community leaders who work every day, often behind the scenes, to provide food access, healthcare, housing support, mental health resources, and other essential services throughout the community.

During this year’s event, attendees walked from Riverside Gardens Park to JBJ Soul Kitchen, where they were greeted with light refreshments and local businesses tabling at the event with the shared goal of getting more involved in the community and giving back.

For the first time ever, Monmouth Street was shut down as participants filled the streets, demonstrating the growth of the event and the impact that can be made when a community comes together with a shared purpose.

Attendees heard from Angel, a guest of JBJ Soul Kitchen, who spoke about his experience dining at the community restaurant and the impact it has had on his life.

Guests also heard from Dorothea Bongiovi, as well as Mark Dinglasan, Executive Director of the NJ Office of the Food Security Advocate, who spoke about the importance of addressing food insecurity and supporting collaborative community efforts throughout New Jersey.

“Red Bank is a special place — a place that believes in inclusion and understands the power of empathy,” Bongiovi said. “I know the world feels divided right now. But when I look at this gathering, I don’t see division."

"I see what’s possible when people decide to show up for each other," she continued. "And we might not agree on everything, but we can work together for the greater good.”

JBJ Soul Kitchen is currently celebrating its 15th anniversary in Red Bank.

Over the years, officials said they’ve seen firsthand the difference that working alongside community partners can make.

“Thank you to everyone who participated in and supported this year’s Walk,” officials said. “JBJ Soul Kitchen looks forward to continuing this growing tradition for years to come.”

To learn more about JBJ Soul Kitchen, you can visit their website.