Last month, Toms River Mayor Dan Rodrick spoke out against the JBJ pop-up kitchen in the Toms River Library, saying unhoused people were being bussed to Toms River from all over the state of New Jersey.

This issue has taken the media by storm, with thousands online clashing over if it should stay or be closed. Many people in the community complain the location is unsafe, operating inside the public library with a school a block away.

In the first 11 weeks, JBJ Soul Kitchen said their pop-up has served 2,600 meals, and helped 2 guests secure permanent housing.

Now, after a media firestorm and public outcry, the pop-up restaurant will close up shop as early as June 22, 2025.