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
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
Testimony
Testimony of Jenny Reed, Policy Analyst, For the Public Roundtable on PR 17-1175, “Sense of the Council in Support of Reducing Poverty in the District of Columbia Resolution of 2008â€
By Jenny Reed • December 11, 2008 • Income & Poverty
Blog
Bridging the Gaps in DC: Strategies to Support Low-Income Working Families
By DC Fiscal Policy Institute • November 14, 2008 • Income & Poverty
Latest on this Issue
Blog
DC Contends with Extreme Child Poverty Disparities by Race, Place, and Age
By Connor Zielinski • March 10, 2025 • Income & Poverty
Blog
Poverty Reduction Stalled While Racial and Income Inequality Persisted in 2023
By Tazra Mitchell • September 16, 2024 • Income & Poverty
Fact Sheets
DC Can Boost Income to Tackle Child Poverty
By DC Fiscal Policy Institute • May 23, 2024 • Income & Poverty / TANF & Income Support
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