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
Report
Reducing Inequality, Increasing Opportunities for DC Residents: Recommendations to the New Mayor and DC Council
By DC Fiscal Policy Institute • January 5, 2015 • Affordable Housing & Ending Homelessness / Early Child & Pre-K to 12 Education / Health Equity / Inclusive Economy / Income & Poverty / Jobs & Training / Revenue & Budget / TANF & Income Support / Taxes
Blog
Unlocking Opportunities: Using Schools As Community Hubs for Students and Families
By Soumya Bhat • October 21, 2014 • Early Child & Pre-K to 12 Education / Income & Poverty
Blog
Tackling Poverty Is Key to Improving Educational Outcomes in DC
By Jenny Reed • October 9, 2014 • Early Child & Pre-K to 12 Education / Income & Poverty
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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