After Sandy destroyed the town of Union Beach, a local restaurant owner launched a community kitchen that's been serving hot meals to those in need.

It was forced to close over the summer amid financial issues...but will reopen tonight thanks to Jon Bon Jovi and his charity foundation.

Jon Bon Jovi
John W. Ferguson, Getty Images
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The community restaurant known as Spoon Full of Hope started last year in the post-storm temporary home Jakeabob's by the Bay. It was run by Gateway Church of Christ and Jakeabob's owner Gigi Liaguno-Dorr.

A lack of business (and post-Sandy grant money) forced Liaguno-Dorr to give up the building, closing the kitchen.

That's where Bon Jovi comes in. The Jon Bon Jovi Soul Foundation is partnering with Spoon Full of Hope to open a community restaurant like the JBJ Soul Kitchen in Red Bank.

To get a hot three-course meal, diners can either pay what they can afford (the suggested donation is $10 for adults, $5 for kids) or volunteer their time at the kitchen to earn a dining credit.

It's a really great concept -- and the Red Bank location gets excellent reviews! It's awesome to see it expand into another hard hit town in need, especially with neighbors helping neighbors.

Spoon Full of Hope is located at the Union Hose Firehouse on Florence Avenue in Union Beach. It will be open on Wednesdays, with seatings at 5 p.m, 6 p.m. and 7 p.m. No reservations required.

According to the Soul Kitchen website, they are also working with local partners to expand to the Toms River area.

Awesome work by Jon Bon Jovi and the Soul Foundation staff!

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