OceanFirst Foundation – Home Runs for Heroes Grants (2026)
Funding for Programs Supporting Veterans and Active-Duty Military in New Jersey
Organization: OceanFirst Foundation
Support Type: Charitable grants
Geographic Focus: Select counties in New Jersey
About the Funder
OceanFirst Foundation supports nonprofit organizations working to strengthen communities throughout New Jersey. Through its Home Runs for Heroes program, the foundation partners with the Jersey Shore BlueClaws baseball team and 92.7 WOBM to raise funds for nonprofits serving U.S. military veterans and active-duty service members.
Since launching the program, more than $772,000 has been awarded to organizations helping military families meet essential needs and maintain stability after service.
What This Program Supports
The Home Runs for Heroes program funds nonprofit initiatives that address the emergency and basic needs of veterans and active-duty military personnel.
The program aims to strengthen stability, dignity, and well-being for those who serve or have served in the United States Armed Forces.
Supported services may include:
- Emergency financial assistance for veterans or military families
- Housing support or homelessness prevention services
- Basic needs assistance such as food, transportation, or utilities
- Health and wellness services for veterans
- Programs supporting the stability and well-being of military families
Eligible Support Types
Funding supports nonprofit programs that provide direct services to veterans and active-duty service members.
Grant funds must be used to address emergency or basic needs of members of the United States Armed Forces and their families.
Eligibility Requirements
Applicants must:
- Be a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization
- Demonstrate a strong record of service and measurable impact supporting veterans or active-duty military members
- Serve communities within OceanFirst Foundation’s New Jersey footprint
Eligible counties include:
- Atlantic
- Burlington
- Camden
- Cape May
- Cumberland
- Gloucester
- Mercer
- Middlesex
- Monmouth
- Ocean
- Somerset
- Union
Organizations located outside these counties must contact the foundation to confirm eligibility before applying.
Funding Amounts
Each participating nonprofit partner is assigned an inning during a Jersey Shore BlueClaws home game season.
For every home run hit during the organization’s assigned inning, the charity receives $1,000.
- If multiple home runs occur during the assigned inning, each counts toward the donation total.
- If no home runs occur, the nonprofit still receives a minimum $1,000 donation.
A maximum of 18 nonprofit partners will be selected each year (two per inning).
Timeline & Review
📅 Application Deadline: March 13, 2026
📩 Decision Notifications: Prior to the start of the Jersey Shore BlueClaws 2026 season
There is only one opportunity to apply each year for inclusion in the program.
Application Process
Applications must be submitted through OceanFirst Foundation’s Grant Request Portal.
New applicants who have not previously participated in the program are encouraged to contact the foundation for eligibility screening before applying.
Organizations may contact the foundation at:
📞 732-341-4676
The foundation also offers assistance for organizations that need support accessing the online portal.
Apply / Learn More:
➡️ https://www.oceanfirstfdn.org/home-runs-for-heroes-grants/
Why This Opportunity Is a Good Fit
This opportunity is ideal for nonprofits that:
- Serve veterans or active-duty military families in New Jersey
- Provide emergency assistance or essential services
- Operate within the OceanFirst Foundation service counties
- Demonstrate measurable impact supporting military communities
The Home Runs for Heroes program provides both funding and visibility for nonprofits supporting veterans, while engaging the community through a unique partnership with the Jersey Shore BlueClaws.
Corporate Grants Guide Notes
Review Type: Annual competitive grant cycle
Typical Lead Time: Apply before the March deadline for the upcoming baseball season
Best Suited For: Nonprofits serving veterans and military families across OceanFirst Foundation’s New Jersey footprint.
