CAMDEN, NJ – Today, U.S. Congressman Donald Norcross participated in the grand opening ceremony for American Water’s new headquarters in the City of Camden and applauded the $200,000 donation from the American Water Charitable Foundation to the Camden City School District.

“With more jobs, less crime and positive educational results, it’s clear Camden is rising – and American Water plays a key role in that revitalization,” said Congressman Norcross. “American Water is not only laying their roots in our city, but becoming a part of its fabric. All children in South Jersey and the City of Camden must have access to the best education in a safe, nurturing environment – and the donation from American Water today helps fulfill that promise. In these trying times for our country, the greatest motivation and hope for the future lies in our children.”

The donation today adds to the $5 million American Water has already donated to nonprofit organizations in Camden including St. Joseph’s Carpenter Society, Cathedral Kitchen, LUCY Outreach, Hopeworks, UrbanPromise, the Salvation Army, Habitat for Humanity, the Ronald McDonald House and the Boys and Girls Club of Camden County.

The donation today will be used to develop a STEM lab at Woodrow Wilson High School.

Norcross, a member of the House Education and the Workforce Committee, added: “In 2013, 23 of the lowest-performing schools out of all 2,516 in New Jersey were in Camden and many of these schools were not a safe place to learn. That is unacceptable. But today, we are making remarkable advancements. There are now 50% fewer drop outs and suspensions than just five years ago. Math and reading proficiencies have doubled and tripled, respectively. New and updated school buildings are creating an enhanced learning environment – all while providing choices in our neighborhoods for parents and their children. These improvements are astounding and unmatched, and I look forward to building upon these successes together in the future.”

Norcross is a champion of STEM education and also announced today that four South Jersey students have won the 2018 Congressional App Challenge for New Jersey’s First Congressional District.

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Contact: Ally Kehoe, Communications Director
ally.kehoe@mail.house.gov