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
Blog
Council Should Act Now to Protect Vulnerable Families with Children
By Kate Coventry • May 12, 2016 • Income & Poverty / TANF & Income Support
Testimony
Testimony of Ed Lazere at the Budget Oversight Hearing on the Fiscal Year 2017 Budget Request Act and Budget Support Act, April 29, 2016
By Ed Lazere • May 7, 2016 • Income & Poverty / Revenue & Budget / TANF & Income Support
Testimony
Testimony of Kate Coventry At the Fiscal Year 2017 Budget Oversight Hearing for the Department of Human Services District of Columbia Committee on Health and Human Services, April 20, 2016
By Kate Coventry • April 20, 2016 • 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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