https://interactive.wbez.org/waterdebt

For years, Chicago leaders turned the city’s water supply into a revenue stream. Now, tens of thousands cannot keep up with the rising costs.

Impact: Gov. J.B. Pritzker allocated $42 million to create a water assistance program for homeowners who can’t afford their water and sewer bills.

Awards: Goldsmith Prize Award semi-finalist, The National Press Foundation Poverty Award