“And there’s nothin’ left, but what’s on my mind… Who’s gonna work for the working man?” Jon Bon Jovi sang in 2009 (and co-wrote with Richie Sambora and Darrell Brown).
Well, it seems the Jersey Shore front man known as Jon Bon Jovi will. His nonprofit Jon Bon Jovi Soul Foundation is on a mission to break the cycle of hunger, poverty, and homelessness. Relying on partnerships to keep his free community restaurant JBJ Soul Kitchen open and other projects thriving, Jon Bon Jovi’s Foundation also provides grant funding to support innovative community benefit organizations (CBO).
NJ Transit is teaming with the rock legend’s nonprofit to further assist those who are homeless. Aside from the JBJ Soul Foundation, the initiative dubbed Chance for Change is also collaborating with Volunteers of America Delaware Valley (VOADV) and Collaborative Support Programs of New Jersey (CSPONJ).
The country’s largest statewide public transportation system launched a QR Code to facilitate donations. All funds donated via the QR code will go to those three organizations, which were handpicked by NJ Transit because each has a solid track record of success responding to the needs of vulnerable communities.
The QR codes are being placed on posters at NJ Transit stations and facilities to make it easy for commuters and other travelers to make a donation. The QR Codes will also be incorporated into digital advertising, social media, and on the NJT mobile app.
“Many customers who ride NJ Transit urgently want to help when they see people in need,” said New Jersey Transit Police Chief Christopher Trucillo. “Chance for Change is an ideal way for customers to ensure their contributions go directly into the hands of those who truly need and seek help.”
NJT is hoping that by offering commuters a digital means of helping the homeless and hungry, panhandling will diminish. NJ Transit said its train stations and bus stops are often hangout spots for those without a home, car, and/or job.
“The Chance for Change program, developed in collaboration with our partner organizations, exemplifies NJ Transit’s commitment to leveraging technology for the greater good,” said NJ Transit President and CEO Kevin S. Corbett.
“It’s a win-win-win – increased support for partner agencies, more help for those in need, and a safe, secure way for our customers to contribute,” Corett added.
“The Jon Bon Jovi Soul Foundation has always believed that strong partnerships are the key to building strong communities,” said Jon Bon Jovi, Chairman of the JBJ Soul Foundation.
“Coming together with New Jersey Transit Police Department, CSPNJ, and VOA to create the Chance for Change program, where each partner contributes their strengths to help those seeking assistance at NJ TRANSIT stations, will allow us to extend our reach even further. We are proud to join their efforts across New Jersey and to raise awareness of this program that will provide much-needed services at a time when many are struggling to make ends meet,” Bon Jovi said.
About NJ Transit
The nation’s largest statewide public transportation system, NJ Transit provides more than 925,000 weekday trips on 263 bus routes, three light rail lines, 12 commuter rail lines and through Access Link paratransit service.
It is the third largest transit system in the country with 166 rail stations, 62 light rail stations and more than 19,000 bus stops linking major points in New Jersey, New York and Philadelphia.
