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 Linnea Lassiter at the Budget Oversight of the Department of Human Services on May 3, 2017
By Linnea Lassiter • May 11, 2017 • Income & Poverty / TANF & Income Support
Blog
Mayor’s Budget Supports TANF Families, but Further Funding is Needed to Protect Low-Income Children
By Linnea Lassiter • May 11, 2017 • Income & Poverty / TANF & Income Support
Testimony
Testimony of Linnea Lassiter at the Budget Oversight of the Department of Human Services
By Linnea Lassiter • May 3, 2017 • Income & Poverty / TANF & Income Support
Latest on this Issue
Fact Sheets
Proposed Federal Medicaid and Food Assistance Cuts Will Hurt DC Residents
By DC Fiscal Policy Institute • May 8, 2025 • Income & Poverty
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
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