Funding Opportunity: Safe Drinking Water in Schools

Funding Opportunity: Safe Drinking Water in Schools

Posted on September 1, 2017

Funding opportunity to increase access to, and quality of safe drinking water in schools.

The California State Water Resources Control Board (SWRCB) has $9.5 million in grant funding available (Notice of Funding Availability) through the Drinking Water for Schools Program, which may be used to address existing water quality issues and or access to clean, safe water. Funds can provide the installation of water bottle filling stations or drinking water fountains, and interim water supplies and treatment devices for schools where contamination is an issue.

Local Educational Agencies (LEAs) are eligible to apply for these funds, including schools that serve kindergarten through 12th grade, and preschools and daycares that are located on school property.

During the first nine months, the program is open only to LEAs that serve Disadvantaged Communities (DAC) with a population of less than 20,000. County offices of education are encouraged to apply on behalf of multiple small districts within their jurisdiction, which can reduce costs through joint purchasing and contracting.

If your school or district is interested in learning more about this exciting new opportunity to improve student access to safe drinking water you can access the guidelines here. The application for the grant is available here.

Self-Help Enterprises has been selected to provide technical assistance during the grant application and implementation period throughout the Central Valley. LEAs should register for Technical Assistance here. Information is also available here: http://bit.ly/DrinkingWaterForSchools. Additionally, can contact Vanessa Soto at (559) 802-1604 or VanessaS@selfhelpenterprises.org for more information.