Like many Americans, a group in Toms River, enjoyed a superbowl party last night. This group, however, was different.

Organized by One Ocean County, a local nonprofit founded by frum people seeking to build bridges with their neighbor, this was a SuperSoul Party open to those facing homelessness.

As part of the SuperSoul Sunday initiative started by Meir Kay of Brooklyn, this was the group’s fourth year hosting a party for the disadvantaged in the greater area. Like previous years, it was graciously hosted by Urban Air in Toms River and there was delicious hot food, snacks and drinks as well as gift bags, free toiletries, clothing, and other necessities. There was also a hair-cutting station courtesy of Zebulun barber shop where guests could get their hair cut. A beautiful football themed balloon arrangement was donated by Annie’s Original Balloons.

Thanks to the support of The Jewish Federation of Ocean County and The Rotary Club of Toms River, this event was open to anyone from Ocean County who faced homelessness or other adverse situations. Though organized by frum local activists, it brought together a diverse range of participants from different racial, ethnic and religious backgrounds for a night of fun and food.

Volunteers for this evening included Rays of Hope, Inspire NJ, Rotary Club of Toms River, Love Your Neighbor, STEPS (Solutions To End Poverty Soon), The Interfaith Hospitality Network, students from Hillel Yeshiva in Ocean Township and the The Mental Health Association in New Jersey.

Avi Kotler, Community Engagement Liaison of One Ocean County, was the organizer of the event and noted how it was “uplifting to see so many volunteers come together to help our neighbors. The energy was palpable and our goal is to channel it for new initiatives going forward.”

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To learn more about how you can volunteer for future events and how to get involved with the work of One Ocean County, please reach out to [email protected]