NJ American Water Offering Grants to Volunteer Fire, EMS

Utility company provides funding for emergency response organizations across its service area.

Published on Feb. 13, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

New Jersey American Water has launched its 2026 Volunteer Fire and EMS Grant Program, which offers grants of up to $2,500 to volunteer fire departments, ambulance squads, and fire aid units across its service territory. The grants can be used for personal protective gear, communications equipment, first aid supplies, firefighting tools, vehicle maintenance, and other operational needs.

Why it matters

Volunteer fire and emergency response organizations play a critical role in communities, but often face budget constraints. This grant program helps ensure these groups have the resources they need to effectively serve residents and respond to emergencies.

The details

Eligible organizations can apply for the grants online through April 10. A committee of New Jersey American Water employees, many of whom are also volunteer responders, will review the submissions. Since the program launched in 2011, the company has awarded over 330 grants totaling more than $451,000 to 207 volunteer fire and emergency response units.

  • The 2026 grant program was launched this month.
  • The application deadline is April 10, 2026.
  • Grant recipients will be notified in early May 2026.
  • The full list of 2026 awardees will be announced later in May 2026.

The players

New Jersey American Water

A utility company that provides water and wastewater services across New Jersey.

Kurt Driscoll

A utility mechanic at New Jersey American Water who also serves as a volunteer firefighter with Strathmere Fire and Rescue.

Edward J. Scanlon

A utility mechanic at New Jersey American Water who also serves as the Deputy Chief of Strathmere Fire and Rescue.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This grant program demonstrates New Jersey American Water's commitment to supporting the critical work of volunteer fire and emergency response organizations in the communities it serves.