Virginia American Water has named the eight recipients of its 2026 Firefighter Support Grant Program, awarding a total of $8,000 to volunteer fire departments across the company’s service areas.
The annual grant program provides financial support for local fire departments to strengthen emergency response capabilities, improve firefighter safety and support public protection. This year’s funding will help departments purchase equipment and resources including respirators, structural fire gear, medical bags, GPS maps, technical rescue gear, traffic control devices, self-contained breathing apparatus and man-vs.-machine emergency response kits.
“Our volunteer firefighters and first responders serve and protect the communities that many of us live, work and play in each day,” said Charlie Piekanski, vice president of operations at Virginia American Water. “At Virginia American Water, we show our commitment, support and appreciation to these heroes through our Firefighter Support Grant Program. It is a privilege to be able to enhance their essential safety programs.”
Each of the following departments received $1,000 to advance fire protection and public safety:
