TANF (Temporary Assistance for Needy Families) is there to ensure that DC’s children have their most basic needs met, no matter the economic hardships their parents face.
The District’s Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) program, administered by the Department of Human Services, makes sure children living in poverty have their most basic needs met in the short term. TANF also helps put families on the path to stability by helping their parents get back on their feet. DCFPI works to ensure that TANF offers comprehensive and effective services, including adequate cash assistance benefits and services such as job training and transportation subsidies.
Featured Publications & Resources
Testimony
Testimony of Katie Kerstetter, Policy Analyst, DC Fiscal Policy Institute at the Fiscal Year 2008-2009 Performance Oversight Hearing for the Department of Human Services, District of Columbia Committee on Human Services
By DC Fiscal Policy Institute • February 19, 2009 • Income & Poverty / Revenue & Budget / TANF & Income Support
Report
Meeting DC’s Challenges, Maintaining Fiscal Discipline: Strengthening Families and Neighborhoods by Increasing Incomes and Reducing Poverty
By DC Fiscal Policy Institute • February 1, 2007 • Income & Poverty / Revenue & Budget / TANF & Income Support / Taxes
Report
Overcoming Barriers: Solutions for Addressing Challenges Created by Federal TANF Changes
By DC Fiscal Policy Institute • October 5, 2006 • Income & Poverty / 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
Fact Sheets
DC Can Boost Income to Tackle Child Poverty
By DC Fiscal Policy Institute • May 23, 2024 • Income & Poverty / TANF & Income Support
Testimony
District Child Tax Credit Bill is a Tool for Tackling Child Poverty and Should be Strengthened
By Erica Williams • January 24, 2024 • Income & Poverty / TANF & Income Support
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