A $50,000 grant from the FirstEnergy Foundation is supporting revitalization efforts in Asbury Park, New Jersey. The funding has been awarded to Interfaith Neighbors, a nonprofit organization that runs programs aimed at job training, early education, food security and urban farming in the city. Jersey Central Power & Light (JCP&L), a subsidiary of FirstEnergy Corp., serves the Asbury Park area.
The grant is among the largest given by the FirstEnergy Foundation in New Jersey this year. It forms part of more than $2 million distributed across FirstEnergy’s service areas during the first half of 2025.
Doug Mokoid, President of FirstEnergy in New Jersey, said: “This grant recognizes the powerful impact Interfaith Neighbors has on Asbury Park. From job readiness to food access, their programs are helping residents build brighter futures. We’re proud to support their mission and the community they serve.”
Interfaith Neighbors provides several initiatives for local residents. The Launch Center offers job training and career coaching; the Early Childhood Learning Center provides care for young children while parents work or study; Meals on Wheels delivers over 800 meals daily to seniors and people with disabilities; and Kula Urban Farm operates a hydroponic greenhouse that supplies fresh produce as well as job training opportunities.
Walter “Chip” Craig, Co-Executive Director of Interfaith Neighbors, stated: “For nearly four decades, we’ve focused on the essentials – housing, food and jobs. Thanks to FirstEnergy Foundation and JCP&L, we can continue building trust and creating real change in Asbury Park.”
Nearly 20% of Asbury Park residents live below the poverty line. Programs run by Interfaith Neighbors aim to address these challenges through practical support for employment and nutrition.
FirstEnergy Foundation supports tax-exempt nonprofit organizations serving communities within its electric operating company territories. Nonprofits interested in grants or sponsorships may contact Alix Hayes at ahayes@firstenergycorp.com for information about opportunities.
JCP&L provides electric service to approximately 1.1 million customers across multiple counties in New Jersey. More information about JCP&L can be found at https://www.jcp-l.com/. Details about FirstEnergy Corp.’s operations are available at https://www.firstenergycorp.com/.
For media inquiries, Chris Hoenig can be reached at (609) 350-8599; investor questions may be directed to Karen Sagot at (330) 761-4286.
