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
In The News
Rent Caps Could Yield Thousands In Added Income For DC’s Low-Income Residents, Report Finds
WAMU • March 12, 2020 • Income & Poverty
Press Release
Statement: DC Fiscal Policy Institute (DCFPI) Seeks Improvements to Councilmember Charles Allen’s “Metro for DC” Proposal
By DC Fiscal Policy Institute • March 6, 2020 • Income & Poverty
Blog
$100 Metro Subsidy Proposal Would Help Residents, But Fails to Center Equity and Fiscal Transparency
By Tazra Mitchell • March 5, 2020 • 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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