#United States #New Jersey #Charitable Foundation #American Water

Supporting Communities: American Water Charitable Foundation Grants

The American Water Charitable Foundation, alongside New Jersey American Water, has recently made a significant impact by awarding a total of $25,000 in State Strategic Impact grants. These funds are designated for four dedicated nonprofits within New Jersey, all committed to enhancing housing stability, financial capability, and access to vital resources for their communities.

Grant Recipients

The following organizations have been selected for funding:

• - HomeFront: Located in Central New Jersey, HomeFront offers various services such as shelter, permanent housing, rental assistance, food, educational and employment support, alongside wellness resources and programs dedicated to children.
• - Interfaith Neighbors: Based in Monmouth County, this organization assists individuals and families in achieving greater economic stability through rental, mortgage, and security deposit assistance, as well as affordable housing and career preparation programs.
• - NORWESCAP: Serving Warren, Sussex, and Hunterdon counties, NORWESCAP connects residents with resources related to finance, housing, and community support, playing a crucial role in tackling poverty at the local level.
• - Isles, Inc.: Operating in Mercer County as well as across the state, Isles focuses on promoting healthy homes, revitalizing neighborhoods, and empowering individuals financially.

Community Impact

Sarah Steward, the CEO of HomeFront, expressed gratitude towards the Foundation for its support, stating, “At HomeFront, we help families in Central New Jersey meet immediate needs while building a path toward lasting stability. This grant is pivotal as it broadens our capacity to provide safe, secure housing and essential resources.”

The American Water Charitable Foundation, established by American Water (NYSE AWK), aims to focus its giving on three essential pillars: Water, People, and Communities. The latest grants are aligned with its 2026 Keep Communities Flowing Grant Program, specifically targeting organizations and initiatives with a profound community impact.

Kimberly Schalek Downes, VP of Business Development at New Jersey American Water, noted, “These grants reinforce our connections with organizations that are making real differences in local communities.” She highlighted a long-standing partnership with Interfaith Neighbors, emphasizing how cooperation leads to meaningful community engagement.

Expanding Resources

The increased funding will allow these nonprofits to effectively extend their outreach and provide more comprehensive services. For instance, HomeFront reported that American Water employees have volunteered at their FreeStore, demonstrating how grassroots collaboration directly supports community needs. Activities like stocking clothing and basic necessities not only assist in the logistics of service delivery but also foster a culture of volunteerism and philanthropy among employees.

Carrie Williams, president of the American Water Charitable Foundation, reiterated the importance of addressing critical community needs: “These grants will increase access to housing support, financial resources, and essential community services, thereby strengthening families and communities throughout New Jersey.”

About American Water

American Water, the largest regulated water and wastewater utility company in the U.S., operates extensively across various states and serves millions of people. The philanthropic efforts of the American Water Charitable Foundation have seen over $25 million invested since 2012, benefiting numerous communities without affecting customer rates.

For more detailed information regarding the Foundation’s impact and ongoing initiatives, individuals can visit American Water and explore their community impact reports.

In conclusion, the grants from the American Water Charitable Foundation stand as a testament to the ongoing commitment to enhancing community resilience and fostering partnerships that yield sustainable benefits across New Jersey. By supporting local nonprofits, they not only fuel immediate assistance but also build pathways for long-lasting community development.