New Jersey American Water (NJAW) officially opened its 2026 Volunteer Fire and EMS Grant Program today, inviting volunteer departments across the state to apply for much-needed funding. Now in its 16th year, the initiative aims to bolster the capabilities of the men and women who serve on the front lines of community safety.
The program is open to volunteer fire departments, ambulance squads, and fire aid units located within New Jersey American Water’s service area, which spans approximately 190 communities and serves 2.9 million people.
Eligible agencies can apply for grants of up to $2,500 to cover a variety of operational costs. The funding is intentionally flexible, recognizing the diverse needs of local departments.
Grants can be used for:
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Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Turnout gear, helmets, and boots.
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Communications: Radios and paging systems.
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Specialized Tools: Firefighting equipment and first aid supplies.
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Training & Education: Reimbursement for courses, manuals, and instructional materials.
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Maintenance: Upkeep for emergency vehicles and apparatus.
The grant selection process is unique in its design. The committee responsible for reviewing applications consists of New Jersey American Water employees who are themselves volunteer first responders.
“As firefighters and EMS professionals, these men and women are on the front lines daily,” said Edward J. Scanlon, a Utility Mechanic for NJAW and Deputy Chief of the Strathmere Fire and Rescue. “It’s essential that they have the equipment and training necessary to keep our communities safe. Their unwavering dedication inspires us to continue strengthening local emergency response capabilities.”
Since its inception in 2011, the program has become a cornerstone of the company’s community involvement, providing a cumulative total of over $451,000 in support.
| Statistic | Program Milestone (2011–2026) |
| Total Funding Awarded | $451,000+ |
| Total Grants Issued | 332 |
| Individual Units Supported | 207 |
| Max Award per Department | $2,500 |
The application window is open from now through April 10, 2026. This timeline allows departments to align their requests with annual budgeting cycles and equipment assessments.
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Visit the Website: Go to www.newjerseyamwater.com/community.
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Navigate: Select “News & Community” followed by “Community Involvement.”
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Submit: Complete the online application form before the April 10 deadline.
Selected departments will be notified in early May, with a public announcement of all awardees expected later that month.
