#United States #Mechanicsburg #environmental education #American Water #Water Grant

American Water Charitable Foundation Launches 2026 Grant Program

On February 26, 2026, Pennsylvania American Water announced the initiation of the American Water Charitable Foundation's Water and Environment Grant Program. This initiative seeks to partner with local communities by offering grants aimed at promoting clean water, conservation, environmental education, climate adaptation, and recreational projects focused on water.

Tara Muenz, the assistant director of education at the Stroud Water Research Center, emphasized the importance of such grants by stating that previous funding enabled them to enhance equitable access to watershed education for K–12 students and community members across Chester County and beyond. By incorporating immersive experiences such as canoeing and fishing, they aim to foster a deep understanding of local waterways, informing and empowering individuals to take action in safeguarding these vital resources.

In the previous year, the American Water Charitable Foundation allocated over $1.7 million across 80 organizations in 12 states, benefiting communities served by American Water. This included $205,000 awarded to 19 organizations in Pennsylvania alone, allowing diverse projects to thrive:

• - Allegheny CleanWays received $5,000 for cleanup operations on local waterways.
• - The Central Pennsylvania Conservancy utilized $15,000 to enhance public preserves with ecological features.
• - The East End United Community Center funded a $10,000 project to install an irrigation system for community gardens.
• - Also, the Pennsylvania Resources Council received $30,000 to provide locals with rain barrels and education on watershed protection.

These efforts illustrate how the grant programs aim to influence positive environmental change while advocating for educational initiatives. Thom Chiomento, Vice President of Business Development, Government and External Affairs at Pennsylvania American Water, remarked on the company's essential role in protecting the environment and reiterated the significant collaboration with committed community partners who address pressing environmental issues.

The American Water Charitable Foundation focuses its efforts around three primary pillars: Water, People, and Communities. Since its inception in 2012, it has contributed over $25 million through grants and matching gifts in support of eligible organizations across American Water's service areas. Carrie Williams, President of the American Water Charitable Foundation, expressed excitement about the launch of this annual program, highlighting its commitment to supporting impactful initiatives that promote community awareness regarding the significance of water conservation.

The application process for the 2026 grant program runs until March 6, 2026. Those interested in learning more about the eligibility criteria and how to apply can visit the American Water Charitable Foundation's website.

About American Water

American Water (NYSE: AWK) is recognized as the largest regulated water and wastewater utility company in the United States, serving approximately 14 million people across 14 states. It prides itself on maintaining safe, clean, reliable, and affordable water and wastewater services to its customers.

About American Water Charitable Foundation

The foundation was established by American Water to facilitate philanthropic giving, focusing on projects that highlight the crucial link between water, people, and community vitality. Being funded solely by company shareholders, it ensures that customer rates remain unaffected.

For more information on American Water and its initiatives, please visit the official site.