Climate Justice for All Grantees Are Keeping the Water Flowing

We cannot go back to a world without climate change. And we cannot wave a wand and undo past systemic injustices. But what we can do is create a better tomorrow for all.

That’s the aim of Climate Reality’s Climate Justice for All grants program.

The Climate Justice for All grant program is an initiative that supports organizations or grassroots groups run by and primarily serving frontline communities in developing community solutions to environmental injustices in the US and Puerto Rico.

These organizations are working hard to support communities hit first and worst by the climate crisis.

One recipient, We the People of Detroit (WDP), is making sure local residents have fresh, healthy, and affordable water flowing throw their taps.

As Detroit Water and Sewerage Department (DWSD) began planning the lifting of temporary protective measures against water shutoffs in this city, We the People of Detroit launched the Water Policy Education & Engagement Project (Water PEEPs) to advocate for sustainable and fair solutions to guarantee water accessibility and affordability for Detroit residents.

A group of eight individuals, all of whom had been impacted by water shutoffs, were trained on topics related to water advocacy and the importance of water affordability. Participants used their lived experiences to engage with their communities by developing multi-media packages, handbills, and social media content.

While the moratorium on water shutoffs expired on December 31, 2022, the work performed by the Water PEEPs added pressure and helped shift that moratorium into a long-term solution for water affordability.

When the DWSD announced the piloting of the Lifeline Plan last June —a water affordability program for low-income Detroiters — the Water PEEPs promptly embarked on a campaign to help educate communities about the intricacies of the new plan through door-to-door conversations.  Their work resulted in the DWSD expanding its public comment period before unrolling new programming.

“The biggest lesson learned for WPD is the power of community and community voice,” the organization reports. “It was a powerful moment to have the water utility admit that the work groups like WPD and others have helped them from what they needed in order to move in a new direction towards an income-based rate structure. The utility was able to engage in the nuance between water affordability and water assistance.”

Are You Ready to Fight?

Began in 2020, Climate Reality’s Climate Justice for All grants program supports on-the-ground momentum of organizations in frontline communities fighting the climate crisis and environmental injustice.

The program provides grants of up to $20,000 along with training and organizational support from Climate Reality to help organizations led by and serving frontline and BIPOC communities, low-income families, people of faith, and young activists fight for climate justice in their backyard – and win.

Does this sound like you?

Consider applying for our 2023-24 grants program now. Learn more and apply here.