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
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
Testimony
Testimony of Katie Kerstetter, Policy Analyst, DC Fiscal Policy Institute, At the Public Hearing on the FY 2009 and FY 2010 Budget Gap-Closing Strategies, District of Columbia Committee of the Whole
By Jenny Reed • July 24, 2009 • Income & Poverty / Revenue & Budget / TANF & Income Support
Latest on this Issue
Testimony
TANF Benefits Are a Lifeline for DC Families, and Limits and Cuts Will Do Major Harm
By Tazra Mitchell • June 6, 2025 • TANF & Income Support
Blog
Federal Layoffs Increase DC Unemployment and Threaten to Exacerbate Racial Inequity
By Shira Markoff and Connor Zielinski • June 2, 2025 • Income & Poverty
Blog
US House Details its Cruel Plan to Take Food and Health Care from the Poor to Give to the Rich
By Erica Williams • May 16, 2025 • Income & Poverty / Revenue & Budget
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