Safety net programs address persistent problems, such as poverty, and protect workers and families during downturns, making it easier to meet basic food, housing and health needs. Our posts on this subject include research on Medicare and Medicaid; social security; the short- and long-term benefits of poverty relief; the increasing focus on employment in combating poverty; and how the social safety net has responded to the COVID-19 crisis.
February 21, 2024
Although their family characteristics are associated with lower rates of poverty in other groups, Hispanic children makeup 41% of U.S. children in poverty.
November 13, 2023
Work requirements aim to promote employment among the poor, but most people in poor households work, live with someone who works, or face barriers to employment.
May 24, 2023
The debt limit debate has cuts to Medicaid, SNAP and TANF on the table. The scope for savings in government spending is bound by their share of the budget.
October 13, 2022
Food insecurity for households with children fell during COVID. But there are signs of reversal with pandemic aid ending and the highest inflation in decades.
March 1, 2022
Poverty is associated with increased risk of family and youth violence. Do anti-poverty programs have the potential to mitigate these types of violence?
May 10, 2021
Although reported rates of hunger during the pandemic have come down since reaching a peak in December of 2020, hunger is likely to remain an issue for millions of Americans even as the economy recovers. There is evidence that existing government programs, as well as the expansions and enhancements of them put in place during the crisis, can move the needle on hunger. A few modest policy changes could further improve their effectiveness and reach.
August 24, 2020
The latest episode of EconoFact Chats features a discussion between Diane Schanzenbach and host Michael Klein on the social safety net in the era of COVID-19.
May 7, 2020
Rising employment rates among SNAP recipients in past years means many low-income households may receive both nutrition assistance and unemployment insurance.
March 26, 2020
Cash payments provide a financial lifeline through this time of income loss. Workers in the hardest hit industries have low earnings and few savings.