The Bayonne Economic Opportunity Foundation (BEOF) will commemorate its 60th anniversary with the Rhythm of Giving Gala on Friday, July 11, 2025, from 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM (EDT). The event will take place at Liberty House Restaurant, located at 76 Audrey Zapp Drive, Jersey City, NJ 07304.
The evening will feature live music and entertainment reflecting six decades. Performers include Judy Torres and George Lamond, both scheduled to give live performances. A DJ and live bands will also perform throughout the event. DJ Manny will serve as the master of ceremonies.
The gala celebrates BEOF’s founding in 1964 and highlights its work in supporting low-income residents of Hudson County. The organization assists with public and private funding and helps those who qualify for income-based services. Individuals who do not meet the income guidelines still receive support through referrals.
- The Bayonne Economic Opportunity Foundation Gala will be held on July 11, 2025, from 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM at Liberty House in Jersey City.
- The event will feature live performances by Judy Torres and George Lamond, with music from six decades, all hosted by DJ Manny.
- Proceeds from the gala will support BEOF’s programs for low-income Hudson County residents, including Head Start, Meals on Wheels, and housing aid.
Event Sponsorship and Ticket Options
The gala offers several sponsorship packages. Each level includes seating and recognition, with higher tiers offering additional benefits.
- The Diamond Sponsorship is priced at $25,000 and includes a table for 15, program recognition, Legacy Book mention, a special award, and a meet and greet with the entertainment.
- The Platinum Sponsorship is available for $15,000 and includes a table for 10, program recognition, Legacy Book mention, a special award, and a meet and greet.
- The Gold Sponsorship is offered at $10,000 and includes a table for 10, program recognition, Legacy Book mention, and a special award.
- The Silver Sponsorship, available for $5,000, includes a table for 5, program recognition, and a Legacy Book mention. Four Silver sponsorships remain available.
- The Bronze Sponsorship, priced at $2,500, includes a table for 5 and program recognition. One Bronze sponsorship remains available.
- Individual general admission tickets are priced at $160.
- Advertising space is available in the Gala Legacy Book. A full-page ad costs $300, a half-page ad is $200, and a quarter-page ad is $100. All ad materials should be sent to [email protected].
To purchase tickets or inquire about sponsorships, visit BEOF.org or call 201-437-7222.
Overview of BEOF Services and Programs
BEOF supports low-income residents throughout Hudson County with services focused on education, housing, nutrition, transportation, and emergency aid. Its programs are funded through public and private partnerships and are designed to address basic needs and long-term stability.
Stepping Stone Academy, formerly known as Bayonne Head Start, serves children ages 3 to 5 from low-income households and those with special needs. The program supports their mental, social, and emotional development. Stepping Stone also offers a Financial Empowerment after-school program.
BEOF provides hot lunches five days a week to 380 senior citizens and others in need at two Bayonne locations: 535 Avenue A and 16 West 4th Street. The organization operates a free, handicapped-accessible mini-bus on two transportation routes to bring seniors to the nutrition sites. Those who are unable to travel may receive meals through the Meals on Wheels program.
Each year, BEOF organizes a Thanksgiving Dinner for up to 400 seniors and homeless individuals.
The organization also provides rental assistance and homeless prevention services. Through the Homelessness Prevention and Rapid Re-Housing Program (HPRP) and the Homeless Prevention Program (HPP), BEOF offers temporary housing assistance, case management, and personalized stability plans. Clients include individuals and families at risk of eviction or currently in shelters. The program addresses mental illness, substance dependency, and physical disabilities while promoting fair housing and working with landlords to secure housing.
BEOF administers the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) and other home energy support services, helping residents manage utility bills and maintain safe living conditions. It also operates weatherization programs and manages a lead grant to improve safety in homes.
Other services include:
- Senior Residential Maintenance
- Elderly and Handicapped Transportation
- Community Outreach
- Multicultural Affairs
- Literacy Programs
- Emergency Food Pantry and Shelter
- Emergency utility programs such as PAGE and NJ Shares
BEOF prepares and distributes nutritional meals and snacks to 156 Head Start children five days per week, in addition to the 380 seniors served through its nutrition sites.
Operating Hours and Resource Allocation
BEOF operates on the following schedule:
- Monday through Thursday: 8:30 AM – 4:00 PM
- Friday: 8:30 AM – 3:30 PM
- Saturday and Sunday: Closed
The organization allocates its resources as follows:
- 40% of funding supports Stepping Stone Academy and early childhood education programs.
- 40% goes to senior nutrition programs, including the two nutrition sites and Meals on Wheels.
- 20% is allocated to homeless prevention services, including HPRP and HPP housing programs.
