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 safety net has responded to the COVID-19 crisis.
November 15, 2021
In spite of the safety net, families residing in poverty devote a substantial share of their monthly expenditures to basic shelter, health, and nutrition.
February 5, 2021
More than 10 million U.S. children were officially poor before the pandemic. Spending in the range of 0.4-1.4% of GDP could dramatically reduce child poverty.
December 2, 2020
Unemployment insurance is the most important support for displaced workers. However, benefits quickly decline over time and are more generous for higher income workers.
November 25, 2020
Available real-time data indicate that there is tremendous unmet need and that households with children report the highest rates of not having enough to eat.
May 26, 2020
Hispanic workers fill many low-wage essential jobs and face added challenges and risks by having low bargaining power to advocate for safer work conditions.
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.
April 20, 2020
A shift to food at home and disruptions to supply due to outbreaks drive impacts to the food sector.
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.
March 20, 2020
Effectively using cash disbursements in the coronavirus crisis requires finding the infrastructure to ensure that payments are rapid, widespread and equitable.