Even as DC’s economy grows, it is marked by stark racial inequalities in income, wealth, and poverty. Affording the basics, such as rent, food, and utilities is a daily challenge for many DC residents. This is disproportionately true for Black residents, one in five of whom live in poverty. Income support programs help people make ends meet and boost long-term education and health outcomes for children. By helping residents pay their bills, care for their children and possibly save for a rainy day, DC can help create more stability and a future of shared abundance.
Featured Publications & Resources
Testimony
Testimony of Katie Kerstetter, Policy Analyst, DC Fiscal Policy Institute, for the Public Hearing on Options for Human Services Programming Available Through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009, District of Columbia Committee on Human Services
By DC Fiscal Policy Institute • October 5, 2009 • Income & Poverty / Revenue & Budget / TANF & Income Support
Report
Census Data Show No Major Changes in DC Poverty in 2008: Yet Figures Reveal Large Disparities in Poverty between Different Population Groups
By Jenny Reed • October 2, 2009 • Income & Poverty
Report
New Census Data Reveal Growing Income Gaps in the District
By Jenny Reed • September 22, 2009 • Income & Poverty
Latest on this Issue
Testimony
Implementation of Federal Cuts to SNAP is Critical to Preventing Harm to DC Residents
By Tazra Mitchell • March 6, 2026 • Income & Poverty
Blog
DC Child Poverty Back to Extreme Level After Short-Lived Progress
By Connor Zielinski • February 19, 2026 • Income & Poverty
Testimony
Public Comments in Opposition to Proposed Federal “Public Charge” Rule
By DC Fiscal Policy Institute • January 15, 2026 • Income & Poverty
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