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 Kamolika Das at the Public Hearing on Bill 23-133, Supporting Essential Workers Unemployment Insurance Amendment Act of 2019
By Kamolika Das • July 15, 2019 • Income & Poverty
Blog
Addressing Lead Exposure Is A Critical First Step Towards Racial Equity
By Kamolika Das • April 30, 2019 • Affordable Housing & Ending Homelessness / Income & Poverty
Testimony
Testimony of Kate Coventry At the Budget Oversight Hearing on the “Fiscal Year 2020 Local Budget Act of 2019,” “Fiscal Year 2020 Federal Portion Budget Request Act of 2019” and the “Fiscal Year 2020 Budget Support Act of 2019”
By Kate Coventry • April 26, 2019 • Income & Poverty / Revenue & Budget
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
Issue Experts
