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
Press Release
Press Release: DC Spending Up Only 3 Percent Since 1990: But Funding for Services to Low-income Residents Has Fallen Sharply
By DC Fiscal Policy Institute • March 16, 2004 • Income & Poverty / Revenue & Budget
Testimony
Testimony of Idara Nickelson, Policy Analyst, DC Fiscal Policy Institute At the Public Hearing on Fiscal Year 2003 and Fiscal Year 2004 Spending and Performance by the Department of Human Services
By DC Fiscal Policy Institute • March 4, 2004 • Income & Poverty / Revenue & Budget / TANF & Income Support
Report
The District Earned Income Tax Credit: Helping Working Families Escape Poverty
By Ed Lazere • November 4, 2002 • Income & Poverty / Revenue & Budget / Taxes
Latest on this Issue
Blog
Inequality Remained Extreme in 2024 as DC Backslid on Poverty
By Connor Zielinski • September 15, 2025 • Income & Poverty
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
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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