Home Runs for Heroes Grants

The Home Runs for Heroes Grant Program, now entering its 17th season, provides financial support to nonprofits that assist veterans and active members of the United States Armed Forces. This initiative, led by OceanFirst Foundation in partnership with the Jersey Shore BlueClaws and 92.7 WOBM, raises funds based on the number of home runs hit during a specific inning assigned to each charity partner at ShoreTown Ballpark. In 2024, the program raised $68,000, bringing the total amount awarded over the program's sixteen years to $696,000. Eligible applicants are nonprofit organizations (501c3) that focus on meeting the emergency and basic needs of veterans and active service members. To be considered, organizations must operate primarily within OceanFirst Foundation’s central and southern New Jersey footprint, which includes counties like Monmouth, Ocean, Camden, and several others. Nonprofits outside this area must contact the Foundation to confirm their eligibility before applying. New applicants are encouraged to inquire about the program and must undergo screening before submitting an application. The application process is conducted through OceanFirst Foundation's Grant Request Portal, and any nonprofits lacking access to technology or requiring assistance can make special arrangements with the Foundation. The grant program operates uniquely: each participating charity is assigned an inning at the beginning of the Jersey Shore BlueClaws' season, and for every home run hit during that inning, $1,000 is donated to the charity. If no home runs are hit during the assigned inning, a default donation of $1,000 is made. All awarded funds must be used to support veterans and active service members, and recipients are required to submit a Use of Funds report at the end of the grant period. The application deadline for the 2024 season was March 1, 2024, but interested organizations should check back in February 2025 for details on how to apply for the next cycle. Notifications of grant awards are sent before the start of the baseball season.