The Human Utility

The Human Utility, established in July 2014 (previously known as the Detroit Water Project), operates as a platform connecting families struggling with utility bill payments to individuals willing to provide assistance. This is achieved through direct payments made to utility companies on behalf of those in need. Recognizing that over 40 million families in the United States face challenges in affording essential utilities, often forcing them to make difficult choices between necessities like medication, food, and transportation, The Human Utility offers a solution. The platform employs a bill-sharing mechanism, similar to a loan syndicate, which broadens the donor base to include individuals from around the globe, enabling collective support to ensure continuous access to utility services for vulnerable families. Donors can choose to be matched with a specific family or contribute to a general assistance fund. Furthermore, The Human Utility leverages utility data to develop targeted interventions aimed at addressing the underlying causes of financial hardship related to utility bills, with the ultimate goal of preventing service disconnections and promoting long-term stability for the families they serve.