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
Guest Blog: Cutting TANF Would Hurt Domestic Violence Survivors
By DC Fiscal Policy Institute • March 1, 2016 • Income & Poverty / TANF & Income Support
Blog
TANF is a Lifeline: Let’s Protect DC’s Children and Help Their Parents Succeed
By Ed Lazere • February 29, 2016 • Income & Poverty / TANF & Income Support
Blog
A City Breaking Apart: The Incomes of DC’s Poorest Residents are Falling, While Economic Growth is Benefiting Better-Off Residents
By DC Fiscal Policy Institute • February 26, 2016 • Income & Poverty
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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