The American Water Charitable Foundation, a philanthropic non-profit organization of American Water, the largest regulated water and wastewater utility company in the U.S., and New Jersey American Water announced Nov. 20 the recipients of its 2025 Community Advancement Grant, offered through the foundation’s State Strategic Impact Grant Program.
This year, the foundation awarded $25,000 to 10 groups to help expand access to opportunities and promote progress for those with limited access to programs or services in New Jersey.
“A Hand to Hold is truly honored to receive this grant from the American Water Charitable Foundation and New Jersey American Water,” said Ayana Baker, executive director of A Hand to Hold Inc.
“This support comes at a crucial time for our organization and will directly strengthen our impact, enabling us to reach more youth and families in Camden. We intend to use these funds to expand our enrichment programs, provide essential resources, and continue creating safe spaces where young people feel seen, supported, and valued.”
This year’s grants will be used in various ways to develop and implement programs, training or community-related projects in the communities we serve.
The 2025 Community Advancement Grant recipients include:
- A Hand to Hold Inc. – Expand Pathways to Success and Youth Hygiene Pantry Initiatives Program
- Domestic Abuse & Sexual Assault Crisis Center of Warren County – Increase community access to programs and services
- Feeding Hands Inc. – Expand Kids in the Kitchen healthy cooking program
- HABcore Inc. – Expand services supporting affordable housing
- Hairy’s Dog House – Expand outreach programs for children in hospitals
- JPELITE Enterprise – Expand initiatives for Young Engineers Enrichment Program
- Meeting Essential Needs with Dignity, Inc. (MEND) – Extend Mobile Market program to the community · New Jersey Blind Citizen Association, Inc. – Improve quality of life for the visually impaired
- Tara’s Happy Boxes – Expand wellness services for children
- VET4U LLC – Increase outreach program for homeless veterans
“These grants honor the exceptional efforts of our 2025 recipients and reaffirm our shared dedication to expanding opportunity, deepening community connections, and building a brighter, more resilient future for all,” said Mark McDonough, president of New Jersey American Water and American Water Charitable Foundation board member.
Funding for the Community Advancement Grant Program is provided by the American Water Charitable Foundation, as part of its State Strategic Impact Grant Program, focused on high-impact projects and initiatives throughout American Water’s national footprint. State Strategic Impact grants are part of the Foundation’s Keep Communities Flowing Grant Program, focused on three pillars of giving: Water, People and Communities.
