The American Water Charitable Foundation, a philanthropic nonprofit organization established by American Water, the largest regulated water and wastewater utility company in the United States, along with New Jersey American Water, has announced that it is now accepting applications for its second annual Hydration Station Grant Program from eligible organizations within its service area.
Formally known as the Reusable Water Bottle Filling Station Grant Program, this initiative aims to promote sustainable hydration and environmental responsibility. The grant program seeks to reduce single-use plastic bottle waste by funding touch-free water bottle-filling stations in public spaces while building trust in tap water.
“The installation of the hydration station at Oak Glen Park has made a meaningful difference for the Orcas Baseball Club and the wider Howell community,” said Sara Moran, trustee of Orca Youth Sports. “The station offers players, families and park visitors reliable access to clean drinking water, encourages healthier hydration habits and helps reduce single-use plastic waste. We’re grateful to the American Water Charitable Foundation for the funding in 2024 to make this a reality and for our continued partnership with New Jersey American Water.”
Eligible organizations must be a 501(c)(3) public charity, K–12 public school, college or university located within New Jersey American Water’s service territory and must be open to the public. Recipients will be responsible for the installation and any associated costs.
“We’re thrilled to launch the second year of this impactful grant program in partnership with the American Water Charitable Foundation,” stated Mark McDonough, president of New Jersey American Water and member, board of trustees, American Water Charitable Foundation. “Last year’s response made it clear that there is a strong demand for sustainable, accessible hydration stations in our communities. These stations help increase public trust in tap water by putting its quality and convenience front and center. It’s a win for our customers, the environment and public health.”
For more information and to apply, visit the Hydration Station Grant Program page on the New Jersey American Water website (link is above). Applications must be submitted by July 11, 2025. Recipients will be notified in August.
Funding for Hydration Station grants 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 grants are part of the Foundation’s Keep Communities Flowing Grant Program, focused on three pillars of giving: water, people, and communities.
