The American Water Charitable Foundation, in partnership with New Jersey American Water, has awarded $25,000 in State Strategic Impact grants to four nonprofit organizations across the state. The funding aims to bolster housing stability, financial capability, and access to essential resources for local families.
The grants were distributed to HomeFront, Interfaith Neighbors, NORWESCAP, and Isles, Inc. as part of the Foundation’s 2026 Keep Communities Flowing Grant Program, which targets initiatives aligned with three core pillars: Water, People, and Communities.
The four grant recipients support distinct regional needs across New Jersey:
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HomeFront (Central New Jersey): Provides emergency shelter, permanent housing, rental assistance, food, educational and employment support, wellness resources, and youth programs.
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Interfaith Neighbors (Monmouth County): Delivers rental, mortgage, and security deposit assistance, alongside affordable housing development and career preparation programs.
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NORWESCAP (Warren, Sussex, and Hunterdon Counties): Connects low-income residents with financial, housing, and community support networks.
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Isles, Inc. (Mercer County & Statewide): Advances healthy home initiatives, neighborhood revitalization, and community financial empowerment.
“These grants strengthen relationships with organizations that are making a meaningful difference in communities across New Jersey,” Kimberly Schalek Downes, Vice President of Business Development, Government, and External Affairs at New Jersey American Water, said. Downes highlighted the company’s hands-on involvement with the nonprofits, citing employee volunteer work at HomeFront’s FreeStore alongside ongoing community initiatives with Interfaith Neighbors.
Leaders from the recipient organizations expressed appreciation for both the financial backing and the corporate volunteer support.
“We are grateful for the many ways the company has supported our work and engaged with the communities we serve,” Heather Triarsi, Chief Executive Officer of Interfaith Neighbors, said. “This grant… will help us expand programs that provide individuals and families with resources and opportunities to build greater financial stability.”
Sarah Steward, CEO of HomeFront, noted that the grant and volunteer aid directly power daily operations: “Their help stocking and organizing clothing and household essentials supports the important day-to-day work to make these items available at no cost to families who need them.”
The American Water Charitable Foundation, a 501(c)(3) philanthropic organization established by American Water (NYSE: AWK), uses its State Strategic Impact grants to support targeted, high-impact community programs across its national footprint.
“The American Water Charitable Foundation is proud to support organizations working to address critical community needs,” Carrie Williams, President of the Foundation, said. “These grants will help expand access to housing support, financial resources and essential community services that strengthen families and communities throughout New Jersey.”
