The Human Utility
The Human Utility, formerly known as Detroit Water Project, is a nonprofit organization based in Oakland, CA, that assists families with their utility bills by facilitating donations and providing targeted interventions.
Company History
The Human Utility was founded in July 2014 and was initially known as the Detroit Water Project. The organization is headquartered in Oakland, CA, and operates remotely. A part of the Y-Combinator W15 batch, The Human Utility has grown significantly since its inception, helping over 4,500 people and more than 2,000 families with their water bills. The organization aims to assist families by making payments directly to utility companies. Over the years, it has expanded its operations to cities such as Baltimore, Detroit, and 28 other cities in Michigan.
Services
The Human Utility assists families with utility bills by making payments directly to utility companies. The platform acts like a loan syndicate, allowing donors from around the world to contribute to covering these bills. It uses utility data to design interventions that address the root causes of utility bill needs. Besides financial support, the organization offers a platform for professionals like lawyers and plumbers to provide services to residents with water bill-related needs. They also offer a monthly giving program to ensure that families have running water throughout the year.
Regions of Operation
The Human Utility operates across various regions in the United States, including Baltimore, Detroit, and 28 other cities in Michigan. Although the organization is headquartered in Oakland, CA, it functions remotely, allowing it to impact families across the United States and Canada. The reach is further extended through its online platform, which enables people from around the world to donate and participate in their mission.
Donation Program
Donations to The Human Utility start as low as $5 and are tax-deductible. The organization accepts both online donations, handled by Stripe (certified to PCI Service Provider Level 1), and checks sent to their PO Box in Detroit, MI. They also offer options for monthly giving and allow donors to make contributions in honor of someone. The Human Utility aims to be 100% self-sustaining through the revenue generated from tips included with donations.
Impact Metrics
Since its inception, The Human Utility has provided significant assistance to families struggling with utility bills. In 2020, they assisted 349 households with approximately $142,846.47. In 2019, they helped 269 households with around $89,588.14, and in 2018, they supported 127 households with $83,738.78. In 2017, the organization aided 269 households with $129,534.71. This support is made possible through their platform, which provides a means for global donors to contribute to solving utility bill challenges.