CAMDEN, N.J. - November 26, 2024 -- The American Water Charitable Foundation, a 501(c)(3) organization established by American Water, the largest regulated water and wastewater utility company in the U.S., and New Jersey American Water, announced today that it has awarded 16 grants totaling $40,000 to nonprofits, school districts, and community organizations to fund public bottle filling stations in priority areas of need through its Bottle Filling Station Grant Program. These organizations will receive funding, on behalf of the Foundation, for new filling stations that will enhance sustainable hydration options in their communities and reduce single-use plastic waste.

The range of projects represent various areas with cultural diversity, opportunities for outside recreation, and space for inclusivity, all united by a common commitment to benefit residents by prioritizing environmental stewardship and community-based support.

"We are thrilled to receive this grant from the American Water Charitable Foundation and New Jersey American Water," said Sean Sutton, director of Facilities and Grounds for the Plainfield Public Schools. "The installation of a bottle filling station at the Maxson Middle School will not only promote hydration and sustainability but also enhance equity by providing our students, faculty and community with better access to resources. This partnership is a meaningful step towards creating a healthier and more supportive environment for our students and families."

"We are deeply grateful New Jersey American Water recommended us for this grant," Heather Triarsi, associate executive director for Community Engagement of Interfaith Neighbors. "The bottle filling station will be an invaluable resource for the west side of Asbury Park, providing residents, park visitors and passersby with access to a fresh, sustainable water source. This initiative will support ongoing community development efforts and foster environmental stewardship in one of the city's most vibrant and diverse areas."

"We are honored to receive this grant from the American Water Charitable Foundation," said Kathy Miers, chairperson of the Belvidere Rotary Club and Mayor. "The bottle filling station at Riverside Park will be a fantastic addition for residents and visitors alike, supporting hydration, sustainability and community health. As a bike-friendly town and a hub for outdoor activities, this resource will enhance the experience of everyone who enjoys our beautiful Riverside Park - from cyclists and pedestrians to families and even their pets. We're excited to see this benefit our diverse and vibrant community."

"Audubon Civic REACH is grateful to be selected for funding from the American Water Charitable Foundation to install a bottle filling station at the Audubon Family Park," stated Danielle Ingves, director of Audubon Civic REACH. "This station will enhance the experience for all who use this central gathering place, from residents to visitors attending events like National Night Out and Audubon Day or enjoying the nearby county park. The addition of accessible, sustainable drinking water supports our ongoing efforts to create a safe, welcoming space for everyone in our community."

"Our bottle filling station grant program will help community partners make a positive impact on the environment and help ensure easy access to clean drinking water," said Mark McDonough, president of New Jersey American Water and American Water Charitable Foundation Board Member. "Accessible, safe hydration is essential to creating lifelong healthy and environmentally responsible habits."

"A staggering 60 million plastic bottles are thrown away every day in the U.S.," said Carrie Williams, American Water Charitable Foundation. "We're aiming to change this in our communities by providing accessible hydration stations, eliminating the need to buy dozens of water bottles and jugs every week. We hope that these eco-friendly hydration stations will benefit all community members and encourage them to take advantage of these outdoor spaces and community activities!"

The organizations selected to receive this grant are located across 10 counties throughout New Jersey American Water's service territory, as follows:

• Audubon Civic REACH
• Burlington County Saint Patrick's Parade Committee
• Chatham Senior Center
• Delanco Youth Sports Association
• Egg Harbor Township Police Activities League
• Friends of Piscataway Public Library
• Girl Scouts Heart of New Jersey, Inc.
• Interfaith Neighbors, Inc.
• Orca Youth Sports
• Plainfield Board of Education/Plainfield Public School District
• Plainsboro Free Public Library Foundation
• Rotary Club of Belvidere
• Roxbury Athletic Foundation
• Strathmere Improvement Association
• United Way of Greater Union County
• YM YWHA of Union County

Each organization will receive funding to purchase a water bottle filling station at a community location, enhancing access to safe, clean, sustainable drinking water for all. The awarded filling stations are expected to be installed in the coming months to benefit residents, visitors, and the environment alike.

Funding for the Water Bottle Filling Station Grant Program is provided by the Foundation as part of its State Strategic Grant Program, focusing on impactful, community-based projects that support water, people, and communities.

For more details, please visit www.newjerseyamwater.com/community.

About American Water Charitable Foundation
The American Water Charitable Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that provides a formal way to demonstrate the company's ongoing commitment to be a good neighbor, citizen, and contributor to the communities where American Water and its employees live, work and operate. For more information, visit amwater.com/awcf.