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, Research Associate, DC Fiscal Policy Institute, for the Public Hearing on Fiscal Year 2007 and 2008 Spending and Performance by the Department of Human Services
By DC Fiscal Policy Institute • February 20, 2008 • Income & Poverty
Testimony
Testimony of Ed Lazere, Executive Director, DC Fiscal Policy Institute at the Public Oversight Roundtable On Poverty Issues: Developing a Public/Private Strategy Aimed at Eliminating Poverty Among District Residents District of Columbia Committee on Housing and Urban Affairs
By DC Fiscal Policy Institute • January 17, 2008 • Income & Poverty
Press Release
Press Release: DC’s “Two Economies” Headed In Different Directions, Report Finds
By DC Fiscal Policy Institute • October 24, 2007 • 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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