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
While DC Continues to Recover from Recession, Communities of Color Continue to Face Challenges
By Wes Rivers • September 18, 2015 • Income & Poverty
Blog
Too Many DC Families Live on $2 a Day: It’s Time to Do More to Help Families Thrive
By Ed Lazere • September 16, 2015 • Income & Poverty / TANF & Income Support
Blog
New Calculator Shows DC is an Extremely Expensive Area for Families; Stronger Supports Are Needed
By DC Fiscal Policy Institute • August 26, 2015 • Health Equity / Income & Poverty / Revenue & Budget / Taxes
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
Issue Experts
