Funding provided by the American Water Charitable Foundation
Camden, NJ, November 25, 2025–(BUSINESS WIRE)–The American Water Charitable Foundation and New Jersey American Water, a philanthropic nonprofit organization founded by American Water (NYSE: AWK), the largest regulated water and wastewater utility company in the United States, today announced the recipients of their 2025 Community Advancement Grants, offered through the Foundation’s State Strategic Impact Grant Program. This year, the Foundation awarded $25,000 to 10 reputable organizations to help expand access to opportunities and promote progress for individuals with limited access to programs or services throughout New Jersey.
Ayanna Baker, Executive Director of A Hand to Hold Inc., said, “We are truly honored to receive this grant from the American Water Charitable Foundation and New Jersey American Water. This support comes at an important time for our organization and will directly strengthen our impact, allowing us to reach more youth and families in Camden.”
This year’s grants will be used in a variety of ways to develop and implement programs, training or community-related projects in the communities we serve.
2025 Community Advancement Grant recipients include:
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A Hand to Hold, Inc. – Expand Pathways to Success and Youth Hygiene Pantry Initiative programs
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Warren’s Domestic Abuse and Sexual Assault Crisis Center county – Increase community access to programs and services
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Feeding Hands, Inc. – Expand healthy cooking programs for kids in the kitchen
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HABcore, Inc.-Expand services that support affordable housing
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Hairy’s Dog House – Expand outreach programs for children in hospitals
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JPlite Enterprise – Expand Initiative for Young Engineer Promotion Program
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Dignity, Inc. Meeting Essential Requirements with (MEND) – Expand the Mobile Market program to the community
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New Jersey Blind Citizens Association, Inc.– Improving the quality of life of the visually impaired
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Tara’s Happy Box – Expand welfare services for children
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VET4U, LLC – Increase outreach programs for homeless veterans
“The Community Advancement Grant Program continues to strengthen communities across New Jersey by supporting organizations committed to meaningful impact,” said Mark McDonough, New Jersey American Water and American Water Charitable Foundation board member. “These grants honor the extraordinary 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.”
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