Publications and Policy Papers
UPO is constantly looking for ways to help Washington, DC residents thrive. Discover more in these publications, including policy papers with research and recommendations for reform.
A Roadmap to Avoiding the Public Benefits Cliff in DC
Public benefit programs – such as income, food, housing, childcare or healthcare assistance – provide vital resources to support the economic security of households with low incomes.
Pandemic Aid in DC
As aid winds down for families with lower incomes, how does our community help them deal with ongoing financial struggles. We have recommendations for how to protect them.
UPO Legislative and Budget Advocacy Priorities
Each year, UPO asks customers and staff to share the most urgent issues for our community. Here is the summary that is driving our work.
Affordable Housing
Washington DC has an affordable housing crisis. UPO is constantly researching what our community can do to improve the situation. See our analysis and then join us to create change. (Note: UPO is also collaborating with developers to build new affordable housing for households who earn up to 50% of the area’s median income.)
60-Year Story of UPO
UPO was founded in 1962 to help DC residents become the change agents of their lives — to lift themselves into economic security. See our legacy and impact in UPO’s 60th Anniversary Gala book.
Guaranteed Basic Income in DC
Two DC pilot programs are boosting the incomes of DC families with low incomes and hold great promise to improve economic security. Our paper shows why the District should expand the best features of these programs to all DC families with low incomes.
ADU DC Homeowner’s Manual
What do you need to know before building a 2nd home on your property (an ADU – Accessory Dwelling Unit)? See our manual, created with the Coalition for Smarter Growth and sponsored by Citi. ADUs create intergenerational wealth, enable people to age in place, and add affordable housing.
