Missouri American Water is accepting applications through August 31, 2023 for its Annual Firefighter Grant Program, which provides financial assistance to fire protection and emergency response organizations serving communities in the company’s service area.

Grants of up to $1,200 will be considered to cover the costs of firefighting tools, equipment, personal protective gear, and training. Last year more than $53,000 was awarded across the state. Over 200 grants have been awarded since the program began in 2016.

“As the water provider for about one in four Missourians, we continually invest in upgrading our water system to enhance service and reliability so water is available when our customers and firefighters need it,” said Rich Svindland, president of Missouri American Water. “The Firefighter Grant Program is one more way we can strengthen the partnerships we have with local fire districts and support their important work protecting our community.”

Only uniformed professional and volunteer fire organizations serving Missouri American Water’s service territory are eligible to receive funding. Fire departments and protection districts are eligible for one grant per calendar year.

Grants will be considered to cover costs associated with the following:

• Firefighting tools
• Water handling equipment
• Personal protective gear
• Communications equipment
• Training activities and materials

“North County Fire & Rescue Fire Protection District was able to purchase two battery operated rescue saws with last year’s grant. When a crisis strikes, our emergency responders are better able to operate these lighter saws in areas that are hard to get to such as, but not limited to, confined spaces,” said Chief Goldstein of NCFRFPD. “As you know, every second counts. Having efficient equipment helps ensure that emergency responders can perform lifesaving rescues with little fatigue.”

Fire departments and districts can apply online at missouriamwater.com by clicking News & Community > Community Involvement > Firefighter Grant Program. Fill out the questionnaire and provide required documentation by August 31, 2023.

Questions can be sent to Christie Barnhart at Christie.Barnhart@amwater.com.

About Missouri American Water 

Missouri American Water, a subsidiary of American Water, is the largest investor-owned water utility in the state, providing high-quality and reliable water and wastewater services to approximately 1.6 million people. For more, visit missouriamwater.com and follow Missouri American Water on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, YouTube and LinkedIn.

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