Detroit’s Water System Is Falling Apart. Your City Could Be Next.

In just five years, 35 percent of America might not be able to afford to wash, drink, or bathe.

This story was originally published by Grist, and appears here as part of the Climate Desk collaboration.

In 2014, United Nations officials sharply criticized Detroit’s practice of shutting off water for residents who couldn’t pay their bills. This year, more than 18,000 residents have been at risk of losing their access. How did Detroit get here? Watch the video above to find out and hear the stories of Detroit residents.

More Mother Jones reporting on Climate Desk

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Our news will always be free to read, watch, and listen to online. But what is its value?

Unbiased reporting on the issues that billionaire-owned newsrooms won’t touch. Fearless research into the dark corners of government and corporations. Ferociously fact-checked news that focuses on the facts, and the facts alone.

It IS free for you and every reader, viewer, and listener to utilize. But it’s not free for our team to make. So, what’s it worth to you? Let us know by making a donation: Make a one-time donation today to support this work. Or make a monthly sustaining donation to help us plan for the future.

Whatever you choose, know that you’re supporting more independent, investigative journalism in a time when we need it most.

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