27 Million Meals and Countless Lives Changed: Fulfill & JBJ Soul Foundation Celebrate 10 Years of The B.E.A.T. Center
10th Anniversary Event Highlights a Decade of Fighting Hunger, Building Connections, and Strengthening Communities
TOMS RIVER, NJ – Over the past ten years, The B.E.A.T. Center has helped transform the way hunger and hardship are addressed in Monmouth and Ocean Counties. Last Wednesday evening, Fulfill and JBJ Soul Foundation welcomed donors, volunteers, supporters, community partners, staff members, and Board Trustees to commemorate the center’s 10th anniversary and celebrate the collective impact that has resulted in nearly 27 million meals distributed, millions of dollars in benefits secured, and thousands of families connected to life-changing resources.
Guests enjoyed food prepared and served by both JBJ Soul Kitchen and Fulfill’s Culinary Kitchen while exploring the many programs housed within The B.E.A.T. Center and reflecting on ten years of community-driven impact, which includes:
“The B.E.A.T. Center represents what is possible when neighbors come together to care for one another,” said Triada Stampas, Fulfill’s President and CEO. “For ten years, this space has been more than a place to access food. It has been a trusted community anchor where people find dignity, support, and pathways to a brighter future.”
Since its inception, The B.E.A.T. Center has evolved into a comprehensive hub of support, bringing together programs that address both immediate needs and long-term stability. Through the People’s Pantry, neighbors can access nutritious food in a dignified, grocery-style setting, while Fulfill’s Resource Connections Team helps individuals and families enroll in benefits such as SNAP and health insurance and connects them with critical community resources. The center is also home to JBJ Soul Kitchen, where all are welcome to enjoy a nutritious meal regardless of their ability to pay, fostering both nourishment and community connection. Through Community Impact programs, neighbors can access workforce development opportunities, housing and utility resources, and partnerships that help strengthen the overall well-being of individuals and families throughout Monmouth and Ocean Counties. Together, these programs reflect The B.E.A.T. Center’s mission of addressing not only hunger, but the root causes that contribute to it.
“We never know who is going to walk through our doors, whether it’s someone in need of a meal and resources or someone who has heard about the wonderful work we do and stops by to make a donation in support of our mission,” said Joanne Gwin, Community Coordinator for JBJ Soul Kitchen Toms River. “No matter who they are, we treat each person with dignity and respect, make them feel comfortable and safe, and provide the help and assistance they need.”
Throughout the evening, attendees toured program spaces, connected with staff and volunteers, and learned how The B.E.A.T. Center continues to address both the immediate and root causes of hunger through food assistance, healthcare enrollment support, workforce development, housing and utility referrals, culinary training, and community partnerships.
As they look toward the future, the organizations remain committed to expanding access to nutritious food, strengthening community connections, and ensuring that every neighbor has the opportunity to thrive.
For the full press release including additional photos, contact Elisabeth Seaman at eseaman@fulfillnj.org.