Opportunities for Utility and Community Group Partnerships

Partnerships are also vital to addressing the needs of frontline communities – those experiencing the “first and worst” impacts of climate change. These communities, which range from big cities to small villages across the US, often have limited economic resources and limited access to clean water and sanitation. New drought, flood, and storm risks further threaten their water services and infrastructure.

Thousands of organizations are working nationwide to build resilience and develop solutions to these challenges. In New Orleans, the Water Collaborative of Greater New Orleans and the Urban Conservancy bring together community members, government agencies, and other stakeholders to address stormwater management and flood reduction in frontline areas. The Southeast Rural Community Assistance Project (SERCAP) partners with rural communities, providing technical assistance to help them find solutions that to develop affordable water and wastewater facilities, protect environmental health, and support community development.

To learn more about frontline communities and the role partnerships can play in supporting them, visit our Affordability Guide’s section on Frontline Community Issues.