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
Big Wins in 2013 and Working Toward Even Bigger Ones in 2014!
By DC Fiscal Policy Institute • December 23, 2013 • Early Child & Pre-K to 12 Education / Inclusive Economy / Income & Poverty / Jobs & Training / Revenue & Budget / TANF & Income Support / Taxes
Testimony
Testimony of Kate Coventry, Policy Analyst, At the Public Roundtable on Revised Fiscal Impact of the Temporary Assistance for Needy Families Time Limit Amendment Act of 2013, Subtitle (V)(N) of the FY 2014 Budget Support Act
By Tina Paden • December 23, 2013 • Income & Poverty / Revenue & Budget / TANF & Income Support
Report
DC NEEDS MORE STAFF TO HELP FAMILIES APPLY FOR PUBLIC BENEFITS
By Soumya Bhat • December 18, 2013 • 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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