Nearly $50,000 awarded to Missouri fire departments and emergency response organizations.

ST. LOUIS, Sept. 17, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Missouri fire departments and emergency response organizations will receive nearly $50,000 through Missouri American Water's Firefighter Grant Program. Supporting local firefighters means supporting safer, stronger communities. These grants help provide critical tools and training that allow departments to respond effectively when residents need them most.

"As a water provider, we recognize the important connection between reliable water infrastructure and effective fire protection. Our Firefighter Grant Program is one more way we support the local departments that help keep our communities safe, helping to ensure they have access to resources that strengthen emergency preparedness and response," said Rich Svindland, president of Missouri American Water.

Reliable water service is critical for fire protection, and Missouri American Water is investing nearly $510 million in 2026 to improve service and reliability. Many older water mains are upsized when replaced, increasing water flow to enhance fire protection. The company also maintains and annually tests more than 44,000 fire hydrants throughout the company's footprint.

"Our portable radios were purchased in 2018, and the batteries are beginning to reach the end of their lifespan," said Fire Chief Aaron Houk. "This grant will help us replace six batteries and maintain reliable communications for our firefighters on scenes until we can budget for additional replacements."

Approximately 380 grants have been awarded since the program began in 2016. Grants will be distributed to 48 fire departments across Missouri this year. To see a full list of 2026 grantees and learn more about the annual program, click here.

About American Water

American Water (NYSE:AWK) is the largest regulated water and wastewater utility company in the United States. With a history dating back to 1886 and celebrating 140 years in 2026, We Keep Life Flowing® by providing safe, clean, reliable and affordable drinking water and wastewater services to approximately 14 million people with regulated operations in 14 states and on 19 military installations. American Water's approximately 7,000 talented professionals leverage their significant expertise and the company's national size and scale to achieve excellent outcomes for the benefit of customers, employees, investors and other stakeholders. For more information, visit amwater.com and join American Water on LinkedIn, Facebook, X and Instagram.

About Missouri American Water

Missouri American Water, a subsidiary of American Water, is the largest regulated water utility in the state with over 700 dedicated employees working to provide safe, clean, reliable and affordable water and wastewater services to approximately 1.7 million people. For more, visit missouriamwater.com and follow Missouri American Water on X, Facebook, Instagram, YouTube and LinkedIn.

Check photo with Missouri American Water employees and Neosho Fire Department staff.

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SOURCE American Water