Bluegrass Community and Technical College Awarded American Water Charitable Foundation 2026 Water and Environment Grant

Published on Apr 27, 2026

Lexington, KY – Bluegrass Community and Technical College announced that it was awarded an American Water Charitable Foundation 2026 Water and Environment grant, to support the addition of water access to the rooftop garden at the Newtown Campus. 

This funding will strengthen the garden’s infrastructure and sustainability, increasing its capacity to grow fresh produce that directly supports students through BCTC’s Helping Everyone Attain Resources Together (HEART) Food Pantry.

“This investment directly benefits our students by helping us expand access to fresh, healthy food,” said Dr. Greg Feeney. “By improving water access in the rooftop garden, we are strengthening a resource that supports student well‑being and food security through the HEART program while also providing meaningful, hands‑on learning opportunities.”

The Water and Environment grant is part of the American Water Charitable Foundation’s Keep Communities Flowing Grant Program. The Foundation is a philanthropic non-profit organization established by American Water, the largest regulated water and wastewater utility company in the U.S., supporting high-impact projects and initiatives that further American Water’s commitment to the communities it serves. 

“Receiving this $5,000 award is a meaningful step forward for the rooftop garden project,” said Peter Mottas, Community Support and Outreach Coordinator, Associate Professor of Psychology and Family Studies, and faculty advisor to the project. “Reliable water access is essential to sustaining and expanding our growing capacity. This funding not only enhances the garden’s long-term viability but also strengthens its role as a living classroom and a direct support system for students facing food insecurity through the HEART Food Pantry.”

“The American Water Charitable Foundation is proud to invest in organizations and programs that focus on clean water, conservation, environmental education, climate variability and water-based recreation,” said Carrie Williams, President, American Water Charitable Foundation. “We take pride in furthering American Water’s ongoing commitment to being a good neighbor and trusted partner in the community.”

To learn more about our rooftop garden infrastructure and sustainability, contact Peter Mottas at peter.mottas@kctcs.edu.